CCC Boss Advocates Development Journalism, Fact-Checking in Counter-Terrorism Reporting
The Chairman of the Centre for Crisis Communication (CCC), Major General Chris Olukolade (Rtd), has underscored the pivotal role of development journalism in counter-terrorism reporting, urging journalists to embrace fact-checking as a fundamental tool in their work.
The Chairman disclosed this at a Roundtable Discussion with the members of the Defence Correspondents’ Association of Nigeria (DECAN), organized by the National Counter-Terrorism Center (NCTC) under the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) in Abuja.
Presenting a paper titled: “National Security and National Interest: A Development Journalism Approach for the Defence Beat,” Gen. Olukolade stressed the need for accuracy and responsibility in defence reporting. “Journalists must recognize the potential impact of their stories on public perception and national stability,” he said. “Defence reporting should align with the broader goal of safeguarding national unity and security.”
Olukolade emphasized that fact-checking is essential in countering terrorist propaganda and preventing the dissemination of false or exaggerated claims, which could undermine military efforts and public trust. Furthermore, he advised journalists to always consider national interests when writing their reports so as to avoid sensationalizing issues that may lead to public disorder and equally threaten national security.
In his contribution, the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, highlighted the critical role of development journalism in promoting national security and defence. He described it as a tool for fostering public awareness and understanding of defence issues, thereby enhancing military efforts.
