The Defence Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DECAN) has urged the Nigerian Navy to expand journalist-embedding programmes to enhance accurate and informed security reporting while calling for a stronger institutional partnership.
The call was made on Tuesday during a courtesy visit by the newly elected DECAN executive members to the Directorate of Naval Information in Abuja, led by the association’s President, Odita Sunday.
This was contained in a statement signed by DECAN’s Public Relations Officer, Matthew Abi.
Speaking during the engagement, Sunday stated that the visit was aimed at strengthening the long-standing relationship between defence correspondents and the Nigerian Navy while deepening cooperation in national security communication.
He explained that defence correspondents play a vital role in bridging the information gap between the military and the public, noting that many of the Navy’s operational achievements often receive limited attention because journalists have insufficient access to military activities.
Sunday urged the Navy to sustain and expand journalist-embedding programmes, particularly for Abuja-based correspondents, stressing that such opportunities provide first-hand insight into the realities and challenges faced by military personnel during operations.
Drawing from his personal experience, he recalled participating in several naval and multinational exercises, including Exercise Farauta, Exercise Prosperity in the Republic of Benin, Obangame Express, and naval vessel reception missions.
“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 said.
In his response, the Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, congratulated the newly elected DECAN executives and described defence correspondents as indispensable partners in shaping public understanding of military operations.
Captain Folorunsho commended their professionalism and reaffirmed the Navy’s commitment to maintaining a productive working relationship with the media.
He disclosed that the Navy had previously embedded journalists in maritime exercises and multinational operations and acknowledged concerns about broader participation.
Folorunsho also assured the delegation that efforts would be made to improve inclusiveness, especially as the Navy prepares for upcoming regional maritime engagements involving several West African countries.
He further announced plans to strengthen informal engagement with journalists through periodic interactions and encouraged reporters to seek clarification whenever concerns arise.
