The Ministry of Defence (MOD) has denied reports that Channels Television was barred from covering the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) symposium in Abuja. The ministry stated that a media advisory had been circulated ahead of the event, outlining a 10:00 a.m. start time and requesting media personnel to arrive by 9:30 a.m. for accreditation and security screening.
According to the MOD, a Channels TV cameraman who arrived on time was granted access and covered the event without issue. However, a reporter who arrived late was denied entry due to security and protocol concerns, as dignitaries were already seated.
The MOD faulted reports of a deliberate exclusion, stressing that it values professional media organisations and urges media houses to verify facts before broadcasting. The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to respecting invited media organisations covering subsequent AFCRD activities, subject to schedules and security procedures.
