Army urges Nigerians to stop demoralising troops with false social media narratives

The Nigerian Army is calling on citizens to cease disseminating false and misleading information on social media, which it says is demoralizing troops who are making significant sacrifices for the nation's security. Colonel Appolonia Anele, the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, made this appeal during a meeting with the executive members of the Defence Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DECAN) in Abuja.

Anele highlighted that the proliferation of misinformation and disinformation online poses a major threat to national security. While acknowledging the benefits of digital technology in communication, she pointed out its role in the rapid spread of falsehoods that can erode public trust in security agencies. The army spokesperson stressed that soldiers deployed in various operational areas deserve encouragement and appreciation, not criticism based on inaccurate information.

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It is painful when, after making such sacrifices, people go on social media to claim that the military is doing nothing.

She recalled a recent rescue operation in Oyo State where 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," Anele stated, adding that such narratives negatively impact the morale of personnel risking their lives to ensure Nigeria's safety.

Anele assured journalists that the Directorate of Army Public Relations is committed to providing timely, accurate, and verified information to support responsible reporting. She urged defense correspondents to maintain their commitment to factual, balanced, and responsible journalism in the national interest and reaffirmed the army's dedication to its partnership with the media to foster public understanding of military operations and national security. DECAN President Sunday Odita congratulated Anele on her appointment as the first female spokesperson and commended the army's sacrifices, reaffirming the association's commitment to responsible reporting.

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Such narratives are discouraging and affect the morale of personnel who are risking everything to keep Nigeria safe.