Journalists Attend National Security Workshop in Tamale to Promote Responsible Journalism

Journalists from five northern regions have gathered in Tamale for a National Security Council Secretariat workshop aimed at strengthening responsible journalism and enhancing collaboration between the media and security agencies in safeguarding Ghana's peace and stability.

The workshop, held at the Modern City Hotel in Tamale, is themed "Responsible Journalism for National Development" and brings together media practitioners from the Northern, North East, Savannah, Upper East and Upper West Regions.

The initiative seeks to deepen cooperation between the media and the National Security Council Secretariat while promoting ethical reporting as an essential tool for national development and social cohesion.

Welcoming participants on behalf of the National Security Coordinator, COP Abdul-Osman Razak, the Director of the National Counter-Terrorism Fusion Centre, Major General Tim Ba-Taa-Banah, underscored the importance of responsible journalism in the face of evolving security challenges across the West African sub-region.

He noted that rising security threats within the region require greater vigilance, collaboration and accurate reporting to help preserve Ghana's long-standing reputation as a peaceful and stable nation.

According to him, journalists play a crucial role in shaping public discourse and must exercise professionalism, accuracy and ethical judgment in reporting sensitive security-related issues.

Major General Ba-Taa-Banah encouraged media practitioners to uphold the highest standards of journalism, stressing that responsible reporting helps combat misinformation, promotes national unity and supports sustainable development.

He said journalists have a duty to verify information before publication and avoid reporting that could inflame tensions or undermine public confidence in national institutions.

The Director observed that credible journalism remains one of the strongest tools for strengthening democracy, fostering accountability and maintaining social harmony.

Beyond the role of the media, Major General Ba-Taa-Banah called on all Ghanaians to actively support the country's security architecture by remaining vigilant and promptly reporting suspicious activities.

He reiterated the National Security Council Secretariat's public awareness campaign, urging citizens to embrace the message:

"See Something, Say Something."

According to him, public cooperation with security agencies is essential for preventing crime, combating terrorism and responding effectively to emerging security threats.

Organisers expect the workshop to improve mutual understanding between journalists and security institutions while equipping media practitioners with the knowledge required to report responsibly on national security matters.

The engagement is also expected to strengthen partnerships between the media and the National Security Council Secretariat, promote ethical journalism and reinforce the role of the press as a key partner in advancing peace, stability and national development.

Through dialogue and capacity building, the workshop aims to ensure that journalists continue to provide accurate, balanced and responsible reporting that contributes positively to Ghana's democratic governance and national security.