The new Spokesperson of Defense Headquarters (DHQ), Colonel Nwachukwu Onyema, has disclosed that terrorists survive on the oxygen of media publicity.

According to him, acts of insurgency continue to defy every possible solution because the publicity in the media seems to be the oxygen which gives life to terrorism.

Colonel Onyema spoke recently during his inauguration as the new acting Director Defense Information (DDI) at the Defense Headquarters’ Conference Room.

He said terrorism is a societal ill and an aberration that is threatening Nigeria’s collective peace, unity and national development, hence must not be allowed to thrive.

He observed that contemporary security challenges have orchestrated a paradigm shift from the traditional interstate warfare between nation states to intra state conflicts, adding that such a situation engenders a plethora of security challenges ranging from terrorism, militancy, banditry and other sundry crimes.

“These developments have been most times, overwhelming for the paramilitary agencies, thereby occasioning the invitation of the military to act in aid of civil authority to restore law and order and ensure peace and stability.

“Therefore, in addition to the defence of Nigeria’s territorial integrity, the Armed Forces of Nigeria is engrossed in containing security challenges that are of internal disposition,” he said.

Col. Onyema called on respective reputable media to support and appreciate the AFN for its commitment and steadfastness in ensuring national security.

He appreciated members of the press, for being very professional in the military’s quest to fight terrorism, insurgency and other criminal elements for the enthronement of peace and national security.

His words: “It is therefore pertinent, to work hands in glove to deny our common adversary the oxygen of publicity and crush the grandiose ego of terrorism.”

The newly-inaugurated Defense image maker also enjoined the press to encourage the general public to equally support the military, saying that “it will go a long way to motivate and shore up their morale as they carry out the herculean task of defending the nation.”

He pledged to contribute his quota, as an information and reputation manager, to the actualisation of the vision of the Chief of Defense Staff, which is to “ensure well-motivated, trained and equipped Armed Forces that is responsive to national security commitment.”

In a remark before handing-over to his successor, the former DDI, Brig. Gen. John Agwim, said he was fulfilled not only for acquiring the highest level of educational qualifications and also becoming a Fellow of the highly esteemed Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), but also, to have risen to the peak by serving as the spokesman for the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

The former Defence Spokesperson maintained that the task of managing the image and reputation of the Armed Forces is very important but quite challenging, saying: “This is because the activities and nature of military operations are one that has far-reaching implications for the nation and its citizens.”

The highpoint of the colorful ceremony was the signing of the handing-over note, and flag to the new DDI by Brig. Gen. Agim.

The NIPR President, Mallam Mukhtar Sirajo, was among eminent dignitaries at the event.

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