By Sumaila Ogbaje
The Nigerian Army has urged Nigerians to desist from spreading false and misleading narratives on social media that undermine the morale of troops, saying personnel continue to make enormous sacrifices to safeguard the country.
The Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Col. Appolonia Anele, made the appeal while receiving the executive members of the Defence Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DECAN) on Wednesday in Abuja.
Anele said the increasing spread of misinformation and disinformation on social media had become a major challenge to national security.
She noted that while digital technology had transformed communication, it had also created avenues for the rapid dissemination of false information capable of eroding public confidence in security institutions.
The army spokesperson said troops deployed across various theatres of operation deserved encouragement and appreciation rather than criticism founded on misinformation.
She recalled the recent rescue operation involving abducted students and teachers in Oyo State, during which an Army officer, a soldier and a police officer paid the supreme sacrifice.
“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.
Anele assured journalists that the Directorate of Army Public Relations would continue to provide timely, accurate and verified information to support responsible reporting.
According to her, official statements are issued only after facts have been thoroughly verified to ensure credibility and public confidence.
She urged defence correspondents to remain committed to factual, balanced and responsible journalism in the national interest.
Anele reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to sustaining its longstanding partnership with the media in promoting public understanding of military operations and national security.
Earlier, the President of DECAN, Mr Sunday Odita, congratulated Anele on her appointment as the first female spokesperson of the Nigerian Army.
Odita described the milestone as a testament to her professionalism, competence and years of dedicated service.
He reaffirmed the association’s commitment to responsible, balanced and factual reporting of defence and security issues.
He also commended the Nigerian Army for the sacrifices of its personnel in safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity and combating terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats.
The DECAN president lauded the Directorate of Army Public Relations for organising capacity-building workshops for defence correspondents and Army spokespersons.
According to him, the initiative has strengthened professional reporting of military activities and enhanced understanding between the military and the media.
Odita appealed for deeper collaboration through regular engagements, timely dissemination of information, increased operational briefings, media embedment opportunities and support for the establishment of a Defence Correspondents Press Centre.
He said stronger cooperation between the military and defence correspondents would enhance public confidence in the Armed Forces and ensure Nigerians received credible and timely information on military operations. (NAN)
