The Ministry of Defence wishes to clarify recent media reports concerning the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day symposium and lecture series held today at the National Defence College, Abuja.
Ahead of the event, a media advisory was duly circulated, informing invited media organisations that the programme would begin at exactly 10:00 a.m., with all media personnel expected to be seated by 9:30 a.m. This arrangement was put in place to allow for proper accreditation, security screening, and a smooth, disruption-free event for invited guests and dignitaries.
Contrary to claims aired by Channels TV, the Ministry did not prevent the station from covering the event. A Channels TV cameraman who arrived before the programme commenced was granted access and carried out his coverage without any hindrance. However, the reporter who arrived after the event had already begun was unable to gain entry due to established security and protocol guidelines, as dignitaries were already seated and security checks were ongoing.
The Ministry deeply regrets any misleading reports suggesting that any accredited media organisation was deliberately excluded. We value the media as key partners in promoting transparency and public awareness, and we hold professional organisations such as Channels TV in high regard. We therefore urge media outlets to ensure accuracy and proper verification of facts before broadcasting.
As activities marking the Armed Forces Celebration continue, the Ministry reiterates that all invited media organisations are welcome to cover subsequent events, in line with the programme schedule and standard security procedures.
Iheoma-Hart Queeneth
Chief Information Officer
For: Sub-Committee on Publicity
(Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day)
Ministry of Defence
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