Trust NAF, not rumors, air force spokesman tells Nigerians

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) is appealing to the public to rely on its official statements, assuring that all communications are factual, verifiable, and designed to bolster national security. Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information, made this plea during a visit from the Defence Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DECAN) to NAF Headquarters in Abuja.

“

There are times when people simply do not believe what we say, and that can be quite painful.

Ejodame explained that widespread misinformation and public doubt can significantly hinder the military's efforts. He shared a personal experience where his own father questioned an official NAF announcement, believing it was merely a scripted message. "There are times when people simply do not believe what we say, and that can be quite painful," Ejodame recounted. This instance reinforced his commitment to ensuring every statement issued by his directorate can withstand rigorous public scrutiny.

"Since I became Director of Public Relations and Information, I cannot remember issuing any statement that was not truthful," he asserted. "Everything we release is something we can confidently defend today or even twenty years from now. We stand by the accuracy of our communications." He urged Nigerians to prioritize official NAF information over rumors and unverified social media content, warning that false information can inadvertently empower terrorist groups by creating fear and confusion.

“

Even you don’t believe me? Yet I was telling the truth.

The NAF spokesman also praised the defense correspondents for their ethical reporting practices. "There have been occasions when you received information but chose to withhold publication until we confirmed the facts," he noted. "Rather than rush to publish unverified reports, you exercised restraint. That means a great deal, not only to the Nigerian Air Force but also to the nation."

“

Since I became Director of Public Relations and Information, I cannot remember issuing any statement that was not truthful.

Earlier, DECAN President Sunday Odita acknowledged the NAF's sacrifices in combating various security threats. He affirmed the association's dedication to ethical reporting and called for enhanced collaboration through regular briefings, improved information access, and capacity-building programs. The association is also preparing to launch "The Defence Correspondent Journal."

“

Everything we release is something we can confidently defend today or even twenty years from now. We stand by the accuracy of our communications.