Idris, NSA push strategic-communication plan as “60% of security fight is non-kinetic”

Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris and the National Security Adviser’s office have called for closer collaboration between security agencies and the media, saying strategic communication is now central to Nigeria’s fight against insecurity.

Speaking Thursday at the National Security Summit organised by the Nigeria Union of Journalists and the Department of State Services, both sides pledged to build a formal platform for verified information sharing.

—“Terrorism, disinformation force nations to rethink security”—

Idris said threats from terrorism, violent extremism, cybercrime, organised crime and disinformation mean security work now goes beyond military action.

“The relationship between the media and security agencies must be founded on mutual respect, professionalism, trust and an appreciation of their complementary roles,” he said.

He linked the partnership to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, noting progress in neutralising terrorists and bandits, rescuing kidnapped victims, dismantling criminal camps, and upgrading intelligence and surveillance.

But he warned that misinformation and premature reporting can undo those gains.
“National security is not served when misinformation is amplified without verification. Neither is it served when legitimate public concerns are ignored,” Idris said. He urged journalists to uphold ethical, responsible reporting on security matters.

—NSA to launch National Security Strategic Communication Framework—

Chido Onumah, aide on strategic communication representing NSA Nuhu Ribadu, said government recognises the media’s right to inform but wants a structured channel that balances transparency with operational security.

“We are all in this together. Journalists must have access to credible information; security agencies must improve their communication and transparency,” Onumah said.

He announced that the Office of the National Security Adviser is developing a National Security Strategic Communication Framework to reduce the risk of reports that could aid terrorists, while protecting the public’s right to know.

Practical steps under consideration include faster, verified briefings during crises and designated liaison officers to coordinate timely information flow.

—“40% kinetic, 60% non-kinetic”–

Both Idris and the NSA cited the Defence Ministry’s assessment that tackling insecurity is “40 per cent kinetic and 60 per cent non-kinetic”. They said information management, strategic communications and community engagement are now decisive battlefronts.

The summit, attended by NUJ President Alhassan Yahaya Abdullahi, security chiefs, academics and media executives, ended with commitments to deepen engagement, build trust, and create verification mechanisms.

The DSS was praised by the NUJ for facilitating dialogue. The Defence Ministry also signalled plans to embed journalists with military units for clearer, more accurate operational reporting.

Idris closed with a call for partnership:
“The media informs citizens, shapes public opinion and promotes accountability; security agencies protect lives and property. Where these functions are coordinated, democracy and development are strengthened.”