Flag Officer Commanding of the Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Michael Oamen, has urged the media to assist in curbing the spread of misinformation that could mislead the public.
Speaking during an end-of-year media engagement held at the command’s headquarters in Lagos, Oamen emphasized the importance of staying ahead in managing the rapid generation and dissemination of information to safeguard national security.
“The speed at which information is generated and transmitted today is such that you must keep pace with it to manage it and ensure national security,” he noted.
Highlighting the dangers of misinformation, the FOC stated that minor incidents could easily be exaggerated without proper management.
“Misinformation and all forms of hindrances that will make just a simple incident become out of proportion must be managed. So, the Western Naval Command is aware of such reality and we have decided that we must engage with the media within our sphere to have a platform to close that gap,” he said.
Oamen stressed the need for continuous collaboration with the media to prevent exploitation of any communication gaps.
“Such a platform will help straighten up any misconception or misinformation, and that way we all will be contributing our quota to the attainment of our national security objective,” he added.
He further explained that the command’s efforts include not just operational activities but also fostering strong relationships with the public.
“In addition to our kinetic engagement, we have what we call the non-kinetic, which encompasses our relationship with the larger society. Here, we try as much as possible to let every stakeholder in the society play their part in ensuring national security,” Oamen said.
The FOC also underscored the societal harm caused by the misuse of information, adding, “Nobody really gains from strategies that are attributable to misinformation or wrong use of the information spectrum. When each person makes the society good, the society will be good for everybody.”
Reflecting on 2024, Oamen described the year as eventful for the Western Naval Command and commended the media for their role in keeping the public informed about its activities.
“As we look forward to 2025, the Western Naval Command, being the premier operational command of the Navy, will be engaging in so many exercises and activities. Therefore, we are going to count on your support to inform the public of all our efforts so that at the end of the day, the nation is better for it,” he stated.
