NCTC chief urges media to avoid reporting sensitive security details

By Zainab Uzomah

The head of Nigeria’s National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), Major General Garba Laka, has urged journalists to exercise caution when reporting security matters, warning that disclosing sensitive information could jeopardise ongoing counterterrorism operations.

Speaking at an end-of-year parley with defence correspondents in Abuja, General Laka said the pressure of rapid news cycles and digital competition often blurs the line between public interest and national security.

He cautioned that revealing operational details, intelligence activities or information on ongoing investigations could compromise missions, endanger personnel and “inadvertently aid adversaries who actively exploit open-source information”.

Despite his warning, Laka praised the media for what he described as its constructive role in shaping public understanding of security issues and countering extremist propaganda. He said responsible reporting had strengthened public confidence in government efforts to combat terrorism and violent extremism.

“Our appeal is not for silence, but for responsibility,” he told journalists. “Accountability remains essential, but discernment is required in handling information that may endanger lives or undermine operations.”

The NCTC chief said national security and press freedom were “complementary pillars” of democracy and called for deeper consultation and “structured information sharing” between security agencies and the media to ensure accurate and contextual reporting.

He added that evolving terrorist and bandit tactics demand stronger coordination, improved intelligence sharing and strategic communication that denies criminals publicity while reassuring the public.

“As we look ahead to the coming year, the media remains a vital ally,” Laka said, urging continued cooperation in efforts to keep Nigeria “safe, secure and united.”