CAS URGES MEDIA TO TAKE ACTIVE STAND AGAINST FAKE NEWS
Oru Leonard
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has called on credible media outlets like TVC, to take a more active stand in combating the spread of misinformation and fake news in Nigeria. He stated this while hosting the Group Chief Executive Officer of TVC Communications, Mrs Victoria Abiola Ajayi, at Headquarters Nigerian Air Force (HQ NAF) earlier today, 26 July 2024.
Air Marshal Abubakar also highlighted the need for accurate and responsible reporting, particularly on sensitive issues with national security implications. “Credible media outlets like TVC have a key role to play in curtailing misinformation and disinformation while checkmating the role of fearmongers and fake news peddlers,” said the CAS. He then called on the media to champion the vetting of online media platforms to mitigate their effect in spreading fake news and to uphold the journalistic principles of fairness, objectivity, and impartiality. Speaking further, the CAS expressed appreciation for TVC’s significant contributions to public awareness and national development.
He also acknowledged the crucial role TVC has played in setting the agenda, creating awareness, and educating the public on the activities of the NAF, including their invaluable support during the recent NAF 60th Anniversary celebration.
While providing an overview of the NAF’s mission and ongoing modernization efforts, the CAS stressed the importance of the partnership between the NAF and the media. He also recognized that military-media collaborations are essential for showcasing the efforts of the military in safeguarding lives and properties, as well as for fostering transparency and trust among Nigerians. While committing to continuing and strengthening the partnership between the NAF and TVC, he also emphasized the media’s role in times of crisis and the need for accurate reporting during sensitive incidents. Finally, the CAS reiterated the NAF’s commitment to maintaining a transparent, cordial, and collaborative relationship with TVC and other media outlets, with the shared goal of effectively communicating the NAF’s efforts and achievements to the Nigerian public.
Speaking earlier, Mrs Ajayi stated that her visit was aimed at enhancing the strategic partnership between TVC and the NAF. According to her, “Our 2 organizations must enhance our partnership in view of the important role you play as an important arm of Government and the need to keep our people abreast of your activities.” She also spoke on the threats posed by misinformation and the need for all to work towards controlling its spread. On the entourage of Mrs Ajayi were the Director of Current Affairs, Mr Babajide Kolade-Otitoju and Manager Commercials, Mr Emeka Chukwuma.
(NAF Media)
