The Nigerian Army has urged citizens and the media to support security personnel by rejecting misinformation and disinformation, warning that false narratives circulating online can undermine troop morale and pose risks to national security as forces continue operations against insurgency, kidnapping and other threats.
The appeal was made on by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, during a meeting with executives of the Defence Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DECAN) at Army Headquarters in Abuja.
Anele said the rapid spread of misleading content on social media had become a significant challenge, noting that while digital technology has transformed communication, it has also enabled the swift circulation of false information capable of eroding public trust and discouraging security personnel.
“The growing spread of misinformation and disinformation on social media poses a serious threat to national security,” she said, adding that inaccurate narratives often overshadow the sacrifices made by troops deployed across the country.
Highlighting the human cost of security operations, Anele cited a recent rescue mission involving abducted students in Oyo State, during which an Army officer, a soldier and a police officer lost their lives.
“It is painful when, after making such sacrifices, people go on social media to claim that the military is doing nothing. Such narratives are discouraging and affect the morale of personnel who are risking everything to keep Nigeria safe,” she said.
Nigeria’s security forces are engaged in multiple operations across the country, confronting armed groups, banditry, kidnapping networks and extremist violence. The government has increasingly emphasised the importance of public cooperation and credible information in supporting national security efforts.
Anele assured defence correspondents that the Army remained committed to providing timely, accurate and verified information, stressing that official statements are released only after facts have been thoroughly confirmed.
She also called on journalists covering security issues to uphold factual, balanced and responsible reporting while helping to strengthen public understanding of military operations.
The meeting also underscored the role of the media in shaping public confidence in security institutions. DECAN President Odita Sunday congratulated Anele on her appointment as the Nigerian Army’s first female spokesperson, describing it as a reflection of her professionalism, competence and years of dedicated service.
Sunday reaffirmed the association’s commitment to balanced and responsible reporting of defence matters and commended military personnel for their efforts in safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity and combating terrorism, banditry and kidnapping.
He also called for closer cooperation between the military and journalists through regular engagements, timely information sharing, expanded operational briefings and media embedment opportunities. According to him, stronger collaboration would help ensure that Nigerians receive credible and accurate information while promoting public confidence in the Armed Forces.
