Nigerian Army, VON partner for National Peace

The Nigeria army has engaged in discussions with Voice of Nigeria on how to collaborate on responsible journalism and information dissemination, with a view to addressing the prevailing insecurity in certain parts of Nigeria, and especially in the South East region.

The General Officer Commanding of 82 Division in Enugu, South East Nigeria, Major General Hassan Taiwo Dada spoke on the renewed collaboration when the Director General of Voice of Nigeria (VON), Mallam Jibrin Baba Ndace paid him a courtesy visit.

Enhancing National Security

The GOC said the Army would explore ways to leverage on VON’s broadcasting capabilities to promote national security, stability, and unity, taking cognisance of the critical role VON plays in reshaping narratives that positively projects Nigeria and Africa to the world.

“This meeting touches on joint efforts to combat misinformation and disinformation that threaten national security with VON’s platform serving as a credible source of information,” the GOC said.

Promoting Army’s Humanitarian Efforts

The Director General of Voice of Nigeria highlighted the Nigerian Army’s humanitarian initiatives and peacekeeping efforts both in Nigeria and the world.

“Through VON’s broadcasts, we shall showcase the Army’s positive impact in curbing insecurity and banditry, as well as kidnapping in Nigeria,” Ndace said.

Capacity Building

The Director General and the GOC also exchanged ideas on collaboration with international partners to amplify Nigeria’s voice on global issues and promote cultural exchanges, by exploring areas aimed at strengthening VON’s role in promoting Nigeria’s interests and values globally.

Mallam Jibrin called on the Army to give its best in defending the territorial integrity of the nation and to maintain loyalty to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

He further reiterated the commitment of Voice of Nigeria under his leadership to sustain and improve on the existing partnerships with the military and other Security Agencies, in projecting Nigeria’s image positively.

The GOC and the VON DG also identified factual and resonsible conflict reporting practices as areas to focus on in the near future.

These discussions would aim to strengthen the partnership between Voice of Nigeria and the Nigerian Army by promoting national interests, security, and unity.