National Security: Nigeria’s new Defence Spokesman resumes, seeks Media support

*Brig.-Gen. Tukur Gusau, New Acting Director of the Directorate of Defence Information, solicits a stronger relationship, cooperation and understanding between the Nigerian Military and the Media on matters of national security

Alexander Davis | ConsumerConnect

Brig.-Gen. Tukur Gusau, New Acting Director, Tuesday, January 17, 2023, took over the Directorate of Defence Information from Maj.-Gen. Jimmy Akpor, immediate past Director, in Abuja, FCT

Maj.-Gen Akpor has been transferred to the Nigerian Army (NA) Headquarters as Director Personnel Services, agency report said.

New Spokesman Gusau has been described as a thoroughbred Public Relations professional, who has served in different units, formations and military operations both at home and abroad.

Gusau commended his predecessor for forging a better relationship with the Media, which he noted had helped to positively project the operations of the Armed Forces in the country.

The Acting Director of Defence Information appreciated the Nigerian Media for the continuous support of the Armed Forces.

He urged a stronger relationship between the country’s Military and the media on matters of national security.

Gusau stated: “I urge you to provide the enabling environment for members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to perform their constitutional roles without distractions.

“As the nation gradually approach the coming general elections starting from next month (February), I urge you to avoid reports capable of affecting the morale of our gallant troops and the credibility of our Armed Forces.”

The Director also assured that the Armed Forces would assist the Media professionals to discharge their duties where necessary.

The Military will also support other government agencies to achieve peaceful and credible elections across the country, said he.

Gusau as well described the Military and the Media as partners in progress, saying the two should strive to promote the interest of the country at all times.

The Director further said: “I urge you to offer me the same support, cooperation and understanding which you have rendered to Maj.-Gen. Akpor as Director of Defence Information.”

Military, media have deep understanding of responsibilities, says Gusau

In his remarks during the handing over, Akpor said that the Media and the Military then have deep understanding of their responsibilities.

The ex-Director of Defence Information noted the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) had done so much in forging an enduring relationship with the Nigerian Media.

He stated that was necessary because the Media, like the Military, has crucial role to play in creating peaceful and orderly environment for all citizens.

He commended the CDS for holding two media parleys with Editors and Media Chief Executives where fruitful discussions led to better understanding of the responsibilities of each profession in furtherance of national security.

Earlier in his speech titled, the “Truth About the Armed Forces of Nigeria”, Maj.-Gen Akpor related that the Nigerian Military has rich history of great exploits.

Among others, the new Acting Director of Defence Information cited the North-East experience with Boko Haram insurgency, where life has been returning to normal due to the efforts of the Military after over a decade of socio-economic dislocations in the region.

He stated: “The truth about the Armed Forces is, therefore, a professional one rooted in its desire to meet its constitutional imperatives.”

Akpor urged the Media to extend the same support given him to his successor, for him to discharge his responsibilities effectively in the country.