The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Ogun State Command, has called for media collaboration to tackle vandalism, protect critical infrastructure and enhance the security of lives and property in the state.
The need for the synergy was highlighted during an engagement between the NSCDC and the executive members of the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Ogun State Council, on Friday in Abeokuta.
Speaking on the importance of collaboration between the media and security agencies, the NSCDC State Commandant, Dr Remilekun Ekundayo, described the media as an indispensable pillar of Nigeria’s national development and security governance.
Ekundayo noted that effective national security was not limited to tactical operations but also involved engaging the public and communities and sharing verified information.
She emphasised that protecting critical national assets, including petroleum pipelines, telecommunications infrastructure, power grids and public utilities, required active public cooperation, which could 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 the flow of verified information, the command’s Public Relations Office will maintain open lines of communication with national correspondents stationed in the state,” she said.
Ekundayo added that while law enforcement agencies must remain committed to transparency, media practitioners must also uphold objectivity and fairness in their reportage and contribute to national stability through responsible journalism.
Responding on behalf of the media delegation, the Chairman of the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Ogun State NUJ, Comrade Yetunde Fatungase, reaffirmed journalists’ commitment to ethical journalism and patriotism.
Highlighting the NSCDC’s key roles in civil protection, internal security and the regulation of private guard companies, Fatungase said journalists remained committed to supporting national stability through fair and balanced reporting.
“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.
The engagement ended with a joint commitment by both institutions to strengthen collaboration in public enlightenment, infrastructure protection and community-driven security advocacy nationwide.