By Sumaila Ogbaje
The National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC) has called on Nigerian media practitioners to exercise caution in handling sensitive security information in the ongoing fight against terrorism and violent extremists.
The National Coordinator of the NCTC, Maj.-Gen. Adamu Laka, made the call at the centre’s End-of-Year Media Briefing, on Tuesday in Abuja.
Laka commended journalists for their professionalism, resilience, and sustained efforts in informing the public under challenging circumstances.
“Your reporting has amplified national counter-terrorism narratives, shaped public understanding of complex security realities, and reinforced confidence in the government’s resolve to confront terrorism, violent extremism, and other threats,” he said.
Laka warned against premature disclosure of operational details, intelligence activities, and ongoing investigations, noting that such actions could compromise operations, endanger lives, and inadvertently aid adversaries.
According to him, national security and press freedom are not opposing forces. Both are essential pillars of a stable democracy.
The Coordinator also highlighted the recent formal classification of bandits, armed non-state actors, and criminal gangs as terrorists, describing it as a transformative step in Nigeria’s security policy.
He noted the growing convergence between bandits and insurgents, including tactical cooperation and shared weaponry, reinforcing the need for a unified counter-terrorism response.
Looking ahead to 2026, Laka emphasised the evolving tactics of terrorists and bandits, the importance of strategic communication, public awareness, and national cohesion.
He reaffirmed the NCTC’s commitment to continued engagement with the media to ensure accurate, responsible reporting.
Laka said the centre and the security agencies were making concerted effort to track and monitor the use of social media platforms and mobile devices to apprehend terrorists and their collaborators.
He said that a lot of perpetrators had been apprehended through the efforts.
Laka thanked the media partners for their collaboration and professionalism throughout the year. (NAN)
