nigerian army (1).jpeg
The Nigerian Army warns against social media misuse, citing its role in fuelling insecurity and spreading misinformation. At a seminar in Lokoja, officials urged Nigerians to use social platforms responsibly to foster national unity. The event highlighted the risks of divisive rhetoric and the need for collective security awareness.

The Nigerian Army has raised concerns about the misuse of social media and its impact on national security. Speaking at the 38th edition of the Nigerian Army Social Media Seminar in Lokoja, Major General A.A. Ayanuga, Commander of the Army Cyber Warfare Command, emphasized the dangers of spreading harmful content online.

He noted that while social media connects people and democratizes information, it also amplifies misinformation, hate speech, cyberbullying, and divisive rhetoric. These issues, he warned, have severe consequences for Nigeria’s peaceful coexistence.

Major General N.C. Ugbo, represented by B.S. Keji, highlighted the Army’s recognition of social media as a critical element in modern asymmetric warfare. He urged users to be cautious, counter misinformation, and promote unity.

Governor Ahmed Ododo of Kogi State, represented by State Security Adviser Commodore Jerry Omodara, echoed these sentiments. He acknowledged social media’s potential for good but stressed the need to address its misuse, which can spread falsehoods and escalate tensions.

Both officials called for collective responsibility in cultivating a culture of security awareness. This includes equipping citizens, particularly the youth, with the tools to differentiate credible sources from misinformation and understand their role in safeguarding national unity.