The National Coordinator of the National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC), Maj.-Gen. Adamu Laka, has called on Nigerian journalists to prioritise responsibility in reporting security issues, warning that premature disclosure of operational details could jeopardise national security and endanger lives.
Speaking at the NCTC's End-of-Year Media Briefing in Abuja on Tuesday, Laka emphasised the need for stronger collaboration between security agencies and the media to advance Nigeria's counter-terrorism efforts.
While commending journalists for their professionalism and resilience in a challenging environment, he noted that their work has helped amplify counter-terrorism narratives, enhance public understanding, and bolster confidence in the government's commitment to combating threats.
However, Laka cautioned against publishing sensitive information about ongoing military operations, intelligence activities, or investigations, stating that such actions could compromise missions, expose personnel and civilians to risk, and inadvertently aid terrorists.
He described press freedom and national security as complementary, adding: "Responsible journalism strengthens national security, just as effective security guarantees the freedom within which the media operates."
Laka highlighted the Federal Government's recent designation of bandits, armed non-state actors, and organised criminal gangs as terrorists, calling it a pivotal shift in policy that addresses growing links between these groups and insurgents, including shared tactics, weapons, and supply chains.
Looking to 2026, he warned of evolving terrorist tactics, including exploitation of technology, vulnerable communities, and the information space to spread propaganda.
The NCTC chief stressed the importance of strategic communication and national unity to counter extremist narratives, while revealing intensified monitoring of social media and mobile devices used by terrorists, leading to several arrests through digital forensics.
Reaffirming commitment to media engagement, Laka thanked journalists for their partnership, describing them as vital stakeholders in Nigeria's counter-terrorism framework.
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