The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Waidi Shaibu, has cautioned that the rising tide of fake news, misinformation and malicious propaganda poses a serious threat to the morale of soldiers, undermines operational successes and erodes public trust in Nigeria’s security institutions.
Speaking at a media-workshop organized by the Directorate of Army Public Relations/Nigerian Army School of Public Relations and Information (NASPRI) in Abuja, the COAS emphasised that in today’s digital age, the immediacy and reach of new media platforms present both opportunities and grave challenges for national security.
He noted that while good media coverage can help the Army communicate directly and transparently with the public projecting professionalism and commitment to peace the same platforms can be exploited to spread falsehoods that distort public perception, fuel anxiety, and demoralize troops in the field.
The workshop, themed “Navigating the Evolving Media Landscape: Enhancing Collaboration with Media Stakeholders through New Media,” was described by the COAS as timely — reinforcing the critical role of accurate information management, media engagement, and public communication in the fight against insecurity.
Officials said the Army intends to deepen cooperation with media stakeholders, stressing that responsible reporting and timely dissemination of verified information are essential for operational success, national cohesion, and public confidence in security operations.
In a broader warning, the COAS reminded Nigerians that “public support is not optional but a strategic necessity,” underscoring that mis- and disinformation campaigns are not mere nuisances — they pose genuine threats to national security and the safety of citizens.
