Army Warns Against Fake Reports on Counter-Insurgency Operations

The Nigerian Army has raised concerns over the spread of fake reports alleging the defeat of troops on the frontline, warning that such misinformation poses a threat to national security and ongoing counter-insurgency operations against Boko Haram in the North-East.

The Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai, Maj.-Gen. Abdulsalam Abubakar, made this known on Tuesday in Maiduguri during an engagement with journalists covering defence and frontline operations.

Abubakar said modern warfare is increasingly fought not only on the battlefield but also in the information space, where propaganda is used to influence public perception and undermine military morale.

He stressed that inaccurate reporting could distort the realities on the ground and weaken national resolve if left unchecked.

The commander expressed concern over unverified social media reports suggesting operational setbacks and troop defeat, describing them as misleading and harmful to ongoing military efforts.

He cautioned against the activities of individuals lacking professional journalistic training who circulate unverified security information online, noting that such actions fuel misinformation and complicate operations.

Abubakar maintained that Operation Hadin Kai has continued to record successes, including the neutralisation of terrorist elements and the disruption of their logistics networks.

He also noted that insurgents have adopted evolving tactics, including blending into civilian communities, making identification and engagement more challenging.

The Theatre Commander called for stronger collaboration between the military and the media to ensure accurate reporting and responsible communication.

He urged journalists to verify sensitive security-related information with official sources before publication.

Abubakar added that Operation Hadin Kai remains committed to both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies, including community engagement, infrastructure support, and humanitarian interventions aimed at stabilising liberated communities in the North-East.