Disinformation is as dangerous as a direct security threat, Nigeria's Army chief warns

Nigeria's Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has stated that public support for military operations is not optional but a strategic requirement for success. He also warned that unchecked disinformation poses a danger equivalent to a direct security threat. Shaibu made these remarks in Abuja at the opening of the Directorate of Army Public Relations Combined First and Second Quarters Media Workshop 2026. The workshop's theme was "Media Integration as a Force Multiplier for Joint and Multi-Agency Operational Success." Represented by Major General Musa Etsu-Ndagi, the Chief of Civil Military Affairs, Shaibu explained that public support enhances cooperation and strengthens public confidence in national security institutions. "Public support is not merely desirable; it is a strategic necessity for operational success. It enhances cooperation, strengthens public confidence and contributes significantly to the attainment of national security objectives," he said. Shaibu linked achieving public support directly to responsible and accurate media engagement, arguing that an informed citizenry is more likely to back security efforts. "Accurate and timely dissemination of information is essential for projecting factual narratives, countering misinformation and reinforcing public confidence in the nation’s security institutions," he added. The Army Chief cautioned that the information space has become a critical battleground where adversaries exploit propaganda and manipulation. "Today’s adversaries rely heavily on propaganda and information manipulation. When left unchecked, disinformation can be as damaging as a direct security threat," he warned. He urged the media to move beyond neutrality and actively support the military's communication goals, emphasizing that no single institution can tackle complex security threats alone. Shaibu also called on journalists covering military operations to acknowledge the human cost of military service, asking the media to "highlight the sacrifices, gallantry and professionalism of our troops, many of whom continue to serve under extremely challenging conditions in defence of our nation." Colonel O.A Anele, Director of Army Public Relations, also addressed the workshop, describing the media space as a critical domain in modern warfare where public perception and strategic narratives significantly influence operational outcomes.

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Public support is not merely desirable; it is a strategic necessity for operational success. It enhances cooperation, strengthens public confidence and contributes significantly to the attainment of national security objectives.