The Ministry of Defence has dismissed reports claiming it denied Channels Television access to the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) symposium held at the National Defence College, Abuja.
In a statement on Monday, the ministry explained that a media advisory had been issued ahead of the event, stating that proceedings would begin at 10:00 a.m., with invited media personnel required to be seated by 9:30 a.m. to allow for accreditation and security checks.
According to the ministry, a Channels Television cameraman who arrived before the event commenced was granted access and covered the programme without any disruption. However, a reporter who arrived after the programme had started was denied entry due to security and protocol requirements, as dignitaries were already seated and screening was ongoing.
The ministry described reports suggesting deliberate exclusion of Channels Television as inaccurate, stressing that it values professional media organisations as key partners in public information and transparency.
It also urged media organisations to verify facts before publication and reaffirmed its commitment to granting media access to subsequent AFCRD activities, in line with event schedules and established security procedures.