By Chuks Oyema-Aziken
Abuja – The Defence Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DECAN) has appealed to the Nigerian Navy to broaden opportunities for journalists to participate in naval operations, exercises and maritime engagements, saying greater access would enhance public understanding of the military’s activities and achievements.
The call was made on Tuesday when the newly elected leadership of DECAN paid a courtesy visit to the Directorate of Naval Information in Abuja.
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, DECAN President, Odita Sunday, said the association was committed to strengthening its relationship with the Nigerian Navy and promoting effective communication on national security matters.
He described defence correspondents as critical stakeholders in the dissemination of security information, noting that limited access to military operations often restricts comprehensive reporting of the Navy’s successes in safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime domain.
According to him, embedding journalists in military operations and exercises enables reporters to gain firsthand knowledge of the realities faced by personnel, thereby improving the accuracy, depth and professionalism of their reports.
Sunday specifically urged the Navy to expand its media-embedding initiatives to accommodate more journalists, particularly those based in Abuja, stressing that such exposure would foster greater appreciation of the sacrifices made by military personnel.
Recalling his participation in a number of naval and multinational exercises, including Exercise Farauta, Exercise Prosperity in Benin Republic and Obangame Express, he said the experiences had given him valuable insight into military operations.
“These exposures have helped me appreciate the military more because I have seen what they go through. It becomes easier to report accurately and responsibly when you understand the realities on the ground,” he stated.
Responding, the Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, congratulated the new DECAN leadership and acknowledged the vital role defence correspondents play in shaping public perception of military activities.
He commended the professionalism displayed by defence journalists over the years and reaffirmed the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to sustaining a cordial and productive relationship with the media.
Folorunsho noted that journalists had previously been embedded in various naval exercises and multinational maritime operations, adding that the Navy would continue to explore ways of expanding participation.
He assured the association that efforts would be made to ensure broader inclusiveness, particularly as preparations intensify for upcoming regional maritime exercises involving several West African nations.
The naval spokesman also revealed plans to strengthen engagement with defence correspondents through regular interactions and encouraged journalists to seek clarification on issues whenever necessary to promote balanced, accurate and responsible reporting.
