Abuja: Former Chief of Army Staff, retired Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai, has revealed that allowing journalists access to battlefields was a strategic move that enabled the Nigerian Army to undermine Boko Haram’s information dominance and counter its propaganda. Buratai, who also served as the Nigerian Ambassador to Benin Republic, made these remarks during a courtesy visit by the Defence Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DECAN) Annual Lecture and Awards Committee in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Buratai explained that during his tenure, the Army deliberately improved its relationship with the media by taking defence correspondents to operational areas to witness and report military activities firsthand. He noted that terrorists had been using media channels to spread their ideology, misinformation, and to demoralize both citizens and troops. By granting journalists direct access to the battlefield, the Army was able to ensure that events were reported accurately as they unfolded, thereby breaking the monopoly Boko Haram had on information dissemination.
Buratai recounted a specific operation near Gamboru-Ngala where journalists witnessed an ambush that resulted in the death of one soldier and injuries to two others, including a general. This frontline coverage, he explained, highlighted the seriousness of the operations and the Army’s commitment to defeating the insurgents. By providing timely and credible information, the Army was able to prevent Boko Haram from controlling the narrative both locally and internationally.
Buratai emphasized the critical role of defence correspondents in projecting military activities and achievements, acknowledging their importance to national security and unity. He accepted an invitation to be the Guest Lecturer at DECAN’s 2026 Annual Lecture and Awards Ceremony, appreciating his nomination for the Distinguished Leadership Award, a recognition he deeply cherishes. The former COAS encouraged DECAN to maintain its collaboration with the military and contribute to national development through professional journalism.
Meanwhile, DECAN President Mr. Odita Sunday stated that Buratai’s extensive experience in military leadership and national security would enrich discussions at the upcoming lecture titled ‘Beyond Kinetic Warfare: Harnessing Technology and Intelligence-Led Operations for Nigeria’s National Security.’ He noted that the lecture’s focus on integrating technology, intelligence, cyber capabilities, and surveillance systems is timely given the emerging security threats that require such non-kinetic tools. The lecture aims to provide a platform for discussions on enhancing Nigeria’s capacity to predict, prevent, and respond to these threats effectively.