Army, Media Forge United Front Against Fake News and Security Threats

JOS, Nigeria – In a decisive move to counter misinformation and bolster national security, the Nigerian Army has called for a stronger, more responsible partnership with the media. The appeal was made during the Nigerian Army Civil-Military Cooperation Media Chat held in Jos on Thursday.

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, emphasized that in the digital age, the "pen and the sword" must work together to defeat evolving security threats. He was represented by Major General Folusho Oyinlola, the General Officer Commanding 3 Division.

“Information and Communication Technology has transformed the media into a powerful tool that shapes public perception and national security,” Shaibu stated. “But while it opens opportunities, its drawbacks are profound. Fake news, disinformation, and propaganda now spread faster than ever.”

He identified the malicious release of classified information and narrative manipulation by dissidents as serious dangers, making Army-media collaboration an urgent necessity.

Unveiling the theme, “The Nigerian Security Environment: Role of Strategic Communication in Strengthening Civil-Military Relations,” Shaibu underscored the media's pivotal role in forging a common narrative for a secure nation. He urged journalists to be credible and objective, especially with the rise of AI-generated misinformation.

“I urge media practitioners to thoroughly verify content that may undermine national unity before dissemination. We must avoid inflaming tensions,” he added, while reiterating the Army's commitment to transparency where operational security allows.

Echoing this sentiment, Major General Musa Etsu-Ndagi, Chief of Civil-Military Affairs, described the media chat as a vital platform for building understanding. He highlighted the media's dual-edged power to either strengthen or undermine security.

“Media influence comes with positive and negative multiplier effects, which dissidents often try to exploit,” Etsu-Ndagi noted. “This is why ethical reporting and avoiding sensationalism remain critical.”

The Chairman of the Correspondents’ Chapel, Polycap Auta, commended the Army for the engagement but also advised the military to continuously evolve its counter-insurgency strategies.

The event, which brought together senior officers and media leaders, concluded with a shared resolve that a united front between the security agencies and the press is vital for a safer and more informed Nigeria.