The Chairman of the Diplomatic Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DICAN), Mr. Idehai Frederick has called on diplomats and security stakeholders in Nigeria to strengthen strategic engagement with the media to effectively shape public understanding of their countries' policies and programmes.
Mr. Idehai made the appeal in Abuja during the maiden edition of the DICAN Diplomatic and Security International Conference.
He emphasized that a stronger collaboration between members of the Diplomatic Corps and diplomatic correspondents is essential in tackling the growing global threats of disinformation and misinformation, which continue to undermine diplomacy and national security.
Representing the Chief of Defence Staff, Rear Admiral I.M. Haruna underscored the need for deliberate and consistent cooperation between journalists and diplomats in addressing global security challenges. He stated that the Nigerian Armed Forces remain committed to combating transborder crimes and addressing the country’s multi-dimensional security threats.
Also speaking at the event, the Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), Mrs. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, represented by the Director of Public Affairs and Protocol, Mr. Abdulrahman Balogun, urged DICAN to uphold professionalism and take the lead in countering disinformation through factual reporting.
He further encouraged the association to work closely with NIDCOM in educating Nigerians, especially those abroad, on the commission's mandate.
"Our National Diaspora Policy is accessible on our website. Yet, we still get complaints from Nigerians in the UK about school fees, which is beyond NIDCOM’s mandate," he said.
Representing the Inspector General of Police, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Kabiru Abdullahi noted that the spread of fake news and disinformation constitutes a crime that should concern every stakeholder. He stressed that journalists must be guided by professionalism, credibility, and ethical standards in their reportage.
The conference, which attracted diplomats, security experts, and media professionals, was held under the theme:
“Nigeria’s 4D Foreign Policy Strategy Amidst Global Security Challenges, Strategic Misperceptions, and the Age of Disinformation: The Role of Diplomacy, Intelligence, and Media in Shaping National and Global Stability.
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