Ribadu urges Media to promote National cohesion and responsible reporting

Nigeria’s National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has called on journalists and media practitioners to prioritize responsible reporting that promotes national cohesion, stability, and unity.

Ribadu emphasized the crucial role of the media in shaping public perception and influencing national discourse, urging journalists to report in ways that align with national security interests and support societal progress.

Ribadu made these remarks during his keynote address at the Civic Space Guard High-level Stakeholders’ Meeting on the Safety of Journalists held on Thursday, November 21, 2024, at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja.

Represented by Major General Samad Akesode, the director of communications at the NSA’s office, Ribadu acknowledged that the media and government operate from different directions but share the same ultimate goal of advancing society.

In his address titled “Promoting Mutual Understanding for a More Robust Civic Space and Journalists’ Safety,” Ribadu emphasized the importance of collaboration between the media, civil society, and the government to address the challenges facing the country, especially in relation to national security and the safety of journalists.

He noted that despite occasional misunderstandings between journalists and security agencies, it is essential to foster mutual respect and understanding.

“A free press is the backbone of democracy,” Ribadu said, recognizing the power of the media to hold those in power accountable while ensuring diverse voices are heard.

He also acknowledged the challenges journalists face, including harassment, intimidation, and even violence, but reassured the press of the government’s commitment to safeguarding their safety and upholding the integrity of the civic space.

Ribadu urged the media to play a more responsible role in national security by avoiding sensationalism and speculation, which could fuel conflict or compromise public safety.

He recommended that journalists prioritize fact-based, solutions-driven reporting, focusing on success stories that foster unity and promote national cohesion.

The NSA also highlighted the importance of accountability and transparency, stressing the media’s role in uncovering corruption and ensuring good governance.

He further proposed regular dialogue between the media, civil society, and government agencies to address concerns and build stronger partnerships for national development.

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Capacity-building programs for journalists, including professional training, were also recommended to enhance their competence and promote ethical reporting.

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Ribadu also spoke about the importance of peer review and self-regulation, suggesting that media organizations should adopt checks and balances such as the Ombudsman mechanism implemented by the Newspapers Proprietors Association of Nigeria (NPAN).

His address followed the presentation of the 2023 Media Monitoring Report by the Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism (WSCIJ), titled “Hushed Voices in an Election Year.”

The report, presented by WSCIJ Executive Director Motunrayo Alaka, highlighted several cases of violations against journalists during their coverage of the election season, underscoring the need for greater protection of press freedom.

The event was moderated by Ohi Alegbe, a respected media personality, and was attended by several notable figures, including Dr. Kole Shettima, Africa Director of the MacArthur Foundation; Presidential Media Aide Abdulaziz Abdulaziz; Musikilu Mojeed, President of the International Press Institute Nigeria and editor-in-chief of Premium Times; Danlami Nmodu, Deputy President of the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP); and other key media and civil society stakeholders.

A number of military officers and representatives from the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) also attended the event.

Ribadu’s address called for ongoing efforts to promote a vibrant and safe civic space, ensuring that journalists are protected and that the media continues to play a vital role in fostering national development.