Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
The Director-General of the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), Major General Adamu Laka, has tasked the Nigerian media to excise restraint and utmost responsibility in the handling and dissemination of sensitive security information.
The Director-General stated this during the End-of-the-Year Media Parley held on Monday, 23 December 2025.
Major-general Laka, who spoke on behalf of the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, reaffirms the Centre’s commitment to press freedom and sustained engagement, with journalists.
In his address to members of the media and staff of the Centre, the Director-General stressed that accurate reporting, responsible commentary, and constructive engagement are critical in enhancing national awareness, countering extremist propaganda, and promoting unity in the face of terrorism and violent extremism.
He lauded the Nigerian media for its professionalism, resilience,and consistent support in reporting national security issues. often under challenging circumstances.
His words: “As a Centre, we have long recognized and deeply valued the consistent support you have extended to our work. Through accurate reporting, responsible commentary, and constructive engagement, you have played a vital role in enhancing national awareness, countering extremist propaganda, and promoting unity in the face of adversity. These contributions are both significant and deeply appreciated. At the same time, this parley provides an important platform to reiterate a matter of critical national interest: the need for caution in the handling and dissemination of sensitive security information.
He further stated: “In an era of instant news cycles, digital virality, and intense competition for breaking stories, the line between public interest and national security imperatives can sometimes become blurred. Operational details, intelligence-led activities, and ongoing investigations are, by their nature, highly sensitive. Premature or detailed disclosure of such information, however well-intentioned, can compromise operations, endanger lives, undermine ongoing efforts, and inadvertently aid adversaries who actively exploit open-source information.
The Centre also urged the support of the media as partners in advancing national security and countering extremist propaganda.
It further noted: “Ladies and gentlemen, our appeal, therefore, is not for silence, but for responsibility. Not for restraint in holding institutions accountable, but for discernment in separating what should be reported immediately from what should be handled with caution or deferred in the overriding interest of national security.
“We believe strongly that national security and press freedom are not opposing forces. Rather, they are complementary pillars of a stable democracy. A well-informed public is essential, but so is the protection of sensitive operational processes that safeguard our citizens and those on the frontlines of security.
“As partners, we encourage continued dialogue, consultation, and mutual trust. The National Counter Terrorism Centre remains committed to engaging the media through briefings, background sessions, and structured information sharing to ensure that reporting is accurate, contextual, and does not inadvertently jeopardize national security objectives.
“As we look ahead to the coming year, our collective task remains clear. terrorism, violent extremism, and organized criminals continue to evolve in form and tactics. Countering them requires efficient strategic communication, public awareness, and national cohesion. In this regard, the media remains a vital ally. Similarly, the evolving tactics of terrorists and bandits demand stronger coordination, deeper intelligence fusion, and strategic communication that denies criminals the publicity they seek while reassuring citizens of the state’s resolve and capacity. Therefore, your continued cooperation and understanding are indispensable,” it also added.
In conclusion, the NCTC boss thanked the media for their collaboration, professionalism, and dedication throughout the year, while soliciting thier continued support, understanding, and responsible partnership to keep Nigeria safe, secure, and united in the years ahead.
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