By Abbanobi -Eku Onyeka
Abuja
The Chief of Defence Staff has called on Nigerians to join forces with the military to fight insecurity in the country. Maj Gen Michael Onoja, representing the Chief of Defence Staff, made the appeal at the Easter Retreat organized by FCT Council, NUJ, on Thursday.
Delivering a speech, Maj Gen Onoja drew parallels between the resurrection of Christ and Nigeria’s journey towards stability, saying the country’s trials are not permanent and that renewal is possible with faith and unity. He commended the Armed Forces for their bravery and selflessness in defending the nation, citing examples of schools reopening, farmers returning to their lands, and displaced families rebuilding their homes.
The Chief of Defence Staff’s representative also acknowledged the vital role of the media in shaping national consciousness and promoting unity. He urged journalists to project verified facts, highlight the sacrifices of security personnel, and discourage narratives that incite fear or division.
Maj Gen Onoja called on Nigerians to embrace reconciliation, compassion, and collective responsibility, saying security is not just the duty of the military, but requires cooperation from citizens, community leaders, and institutions. He paid tribute to fallen heroes and urged continued prayers for troops and the nation’s peace.
In conclusion, he wished Nigerians a blessed Easter, saying the resurrection of Christ is a reminder that hope will always triumph over fear, and urged all to renew their faith in God and commitment to building a secure, united, and prosperous nation.
Ret Col Timothy Antaga, representing the Minister of Defence, urged journalists to support the government’s efforts to address insecurity in Nigeria, emphasizing that a stable country is crucial for their work. He spoke at the Easter Retreat organized by NUJ, FCT Council, stressing the need for journalists to join hands with security agencies to resolve the crisis.
Antaga highlighted the dangers of fake news, calling it a serious security concern, and advised journalists to seek news from credible sources like the directors of media operations in the security services. He commended journalists for their work, noting they’ve been credible and honest, except in cases of infiltration.
Conveying the Minister’s Easter message, Antaga called on Nigerians to have faith, pray, and trust in God, citing the importance of faith during challenging times. He emphasized the Minister’s encouragement for Nigerians to commit their issues to God and continue to have hope.
Grace Ike, FCT NUJ Council Chairman, has urged the government to improve journalists’ remuneration and ensure their safety while performing their duties. She also decried insecurity in the country, emphasizing the need for unity and love among Nigerians. Speaking at the Easter Retreat, Ike stressed the importance of journalists renewing their strength and faith in Jesus Christ, citing the resurrection as a symbol of hope and peace.
Ike highlighted the event’s drive as promoting unity, love, and harmony among journalists and Nigerians, saying it’s essential for the country’s progress. She expressed concern over the poor welfare of journalists, noting that it’s a passion for her and the NUJ secretariat is working to address the issue.
On safety, Ike cited the cybercrime act as a concern, emphasizing the need to protect journalists’ rights to speak truth to power. She urged Nigerians to use the Easter period for sober reflection and celebration, promoting a message of renewed strength, hope, and faith in Jesus Christ.
