We’ll be open to criticism, says new army spokesperson

Mohammed Yerima, the Nigerian army’s spokesperson, says the military will be open to constructive criticism in its efforts to tackle insecurity. 

Yerima, who replaces Sagir Musa, was appointed on Tuesday by Ibrahim Attahiru, the chief of army staff.

At the handover ceremony, which held on Wednesday at the army headquarters in Abuja, Yerima said he looks forward to a better relationship with the media.

“The COAS, who was once in this position, is ever so determined to sustain the enduring relationship with the media through trust, respect and mutual understanding,” he said.

“On my own part, as the spokesman of the Nigerian army, I assure you that my doors will be open at all times in order to respond to your enquiries.

“The better part of my career in the military has been devoted to this very important relationship with the media, and I have always cherished the idea of working with you to give our people the right information about the military and its operations.

“As you all know, nothing boosts the morale of our fighting troops more than the solidarity of all Nigerians, especially media reports that ginger their zeal and fighting spirit and sacrifice to the nation.

“So, I urge you to be very mindful of that and to always remember that their victory is the victory of all Nigerians. We shall be open to constructive engagements and criticism that will support the military operations against the enemies of the country.

“We did it together in my previous assignments, but more nostalgic was my warm and cordial relationship with you during my time as the director of defence information at the defence headquarters. I still recall how helpful and friendly you were with me during those times, and I have also not forgotten a few lessons I learned in the course of that relationship.”

Yerima added that he has no doubt that the Nigerian media is very patriotic, and urged journalists to contribute their quota to ensure that the enemies of the Nigeria are defeated.