Foreign Affairs Minister Calls on Nigerian Media to Embrace Strategic Communication in Diplomacy and National Security

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, has called on Nigerian journalists and media organizations to shift from reactive reporting to a more strategic and proactive communication model, especially in matters concerning national security and foreign diplomacy. Speaking at the maiden International Conference on Diplomacy and Security organized by the Diplomatic Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DICAN) in Abuja, Ambassador Tuggar emphasized the urgency of professional media engagement in combating disinformation and shaping global perceptions about Nigeria.

Represented by his Special Assistant on Media and Strategy, Mr. Alkassim Abdulkadir, the Minister highlighted that in today’s digital landscape, disinformation and geopolitical propaganda are powerful tools that can influence international relations, national security, and public trust. He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to supporting initiatives that strengthen the integrity of the information space and reiterated the Ministry’s readiness to partner with media bodies like DICAN in promoting factual reporting, capacity building for diplomatic correspondents, and advancing the country’s foreign policy objectives. The conference brought together stakeholders from the diplomatic corps, security agencies, academia, and the media, creating a platform for high-level discussions on global security threats, strategic diplomacy, conflict resolution, and hybrid warfare.

It featured expert presentations and panel discussions on how journalism can serve as a frontline defense against misinformation and hybrid threats in a rapidly changing global environment. DICAN President Mr. Idehai Frederick noted that the conference was organized to equip journalists covering diplomatic and security beats with the necessary tools to report with accuracy, depth, and responsibility.

The conference concluded with a collective call for the establishment of media-diplomatic engagement platforms, regular joint training sessions, and the creation of a multi-stakeholder fact-checking task force aimed at preserving peace and truth in both national and international narratives.