By Saheed Adigun
The Ogun Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has called for more collaboration between security agencies and journalists to protect critical national infrastructure and build public trust.
The call was made during a meeting between the NSCDC and executive members of the Ogun Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Abeokuta on Friday.
Speaking on the imperative of a media-security synergy, the State Commandant, Dr Remilekun Ekundayo, described the media as an indispensable pillar in Nigeria’s national development architecture and overall security governance.
Ekundayo noted that effective national security was not just about tactical operations, but also about engaging people and communities, and about sharing verified facts.
She emphasised that safeguarding critical national assets such as petroleum pipelines, telecommunications infrastructure, power grids, and public utilities, required active public cooperation, which can only be achieved through responsible media reportage.
“National security agencies across the federation must build structured partnerships with journalists to combat misinformation, stem public panic during emergencies, and uphold operational integrity.
“To ensure seamless coordination and verified information flow, the Command’s public relations office will maintain an open operational lines with national correspondents stationed in the state,” she said.
Ekundayo added that while law enforcement agencies must remain committed to transparency, media practitioners must equally balance the right to information with operational confidentiality and national stability.
Responding on behalf of the media delegation, Yetunde Fatungase, Chairman of the NUJ Correspondents’ Chapel, reaffirmed reporters’ commitment to ethical journalism and patriotism.
Fatungase highlighted the key roles of NSCDC in civil protection, internal security, and private guard regulation, just as she assured that journalists remain committed to supporting national stability through fair report.
“As journalists, we understand the importance of accurate and responsible reporting in security matters.
“We also recognise the vital contributions of the NSCDC in protecting critical national assets, safeguarding lives and property, and supporting efforts to maintain peace and order.
“Institutional collaboration between security agencies and news organisations is vital to fostering public confidence and bridging communication gaps between the populace and law enforcement,” she said.
NAN reports that the engagement concluded with a joint commitment by both institutions to forge closer nationwide synergy in public enlightenment, infrastructure protection, and community-driven security advocacy. (NAN)
Edited by Folasade Adeniran
