The Nigerian Army recently hosted a workshop aimed at enhancing collaboration between the military, media, and security agencies to address the challenges of the evolving digital media landscape. The event took place at the Nigerian Army School of Public Relations and Information (NASPRI) in Giri, Abuja, and gathered a wide range of stakeholders, including media professionals, security personnel, and online publishers.
Themed “Leveraging Digital/Social Media Influence for Effective Military Operations Within a Joint Environment,” the workshop focused on the importance of media as a force multiplier in military operations. It emphasized the need for stronger partnerships to improve information management, combat misinformation, and develop positive narratives to support national security efforts.
Maj. Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, the Director of Army Public Relations, underscored the vital role the media plays in shaping public perception, especially in the age of digital platforms where misinformation can spread rapidly. He noted that while social media provides the military with an opportunity to share its achievements, it also poses a threat through the spread of false information that can undermine national security.
“Some social media influencers deliberately spread misleading or false information, which can have a detrimental impact on national security. It is crucial that we counter these threats with accurate and timely information,” Maj. Gen. Nwachukwu stated.
The Chief of Army Staff Lt. Gen. O.O. Oluyede represented by the Chief of Civil Military Affairs, Major General Nosakhare Ugbo, commended the media for their role in supporting the Army’s efforts and stressed the importance of positive media narratives in strengthening public trust. He emphasized the Army’s reliance on media support for operational success and national security, noting that the media plays a key role in shaping public opinion and fostering public support for the military’s constitutional role.
“We need the media to help foster public opinion that supports our operations,” Lt. Gen. Oluyede said. “Developing positive narratives and countering fake news is vital for maintaining public trust in our efforts to safeguard the nation.”
The workshop also elaborated the significance of continuous collaboration between the military and the media. He also reaffirmed the Nigeria Army’s commitment to supporting civil authorities in ensuring the protection of lives and property, emphasizing the shared responsibility of citizens in maintaining peace and security.
In his remarks, the Commandant, Nigeria Army School of Public Relations and Information, Lieutenant Colonel Adamu Ngulde announced plans to modernize NASPRI, transforming it into a world-class training facility to better equip Army personnel with the necessary skills to navigate the challenges of modern media and technology.
The workshop according to the Nigeria Army is expected to build relationships with the media, ensuring effective communication to support national security. The Army expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his steadfast support, which has been pivotal in strengthening the nation’s defense efforts.
“This workshop is expected to foster actionable ideas, enhance collaboration, and improve the military’s ability to effectively communicate and engage with the public to address national security challenges”, the Commandant added.
