Nigerian Army Warns Against Social Media Misuse in Security Matters

The Nigerian Army has cautioned against the misuse of social media, warning that its reckless use is fueling insecurity and threatening the country’s peaceful coexistence.

Major General A.A. Ayanuga, Commander of the Nigerian Army Cyber Warfare Command, issued the warning in Lokoja during the 38th edition of the Nigerian Army Social Media Seminar.

Themed “Cultivating a Culture of Security Awareness Through Social Media,” the event highlighted the dual impact of social media on national security.

The Role of Social Media in Security

Major General Ayanuga emphasized that social media, while a powerful tool for communication and connection, has also become a platform for spreading harmful narratives.

“Social media has profoundly influenced the security landscape of societies worldwide,” he stated.

“However, its misuse—through the sharing of misinformation, disinformation, cyberbullying, hate speech, and divisive rhetoric—poses severe threats to national security.”

He urged Nigerians to recognize the responsibility that comes with the freedom social media offers and called for its use to promote unity and national interest rather than division.

Countering Misinformation

The Chief of Civil-Military Affairs of the Nigerian Army, Major General N.C. Ugbo, represented by B.S. Keji, described social media as a significant aspect of modern asymmetric warfare.

He stressed the need for collective efforts to counter misinformation and safeguard national unity.

“The Nigerian Army acknowledges the transformative potential of social media,” he said. “We must use it responsibly to preserve truth, respect, and national interest while addressing the challenges posed by its misuse.”

Call for Collective Responsibility

Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Ododo, represented by the State Security Adviser, Commodore Jerry Omodara, underscored the dual nature of social media as a tool for both positive and negative influences.

“Social media plays a critical role in shaping perceptions and guiding public discourse,” he noted.

“While it can disseminate life-saving information, it can also propagate falsehoods and escalate tensions, threatening national stability.”

He called for a culture of security awareness, urging citizens, particularly the youth, to distinguish credible information from falsehoods and understand their role in maintaining peace and security.

A Call for Collaboration

The seminar concluded with a consensus on the need for constant engagement, education, and collaboration across all sectors of society to ensure the responsible use of social media.

It emphasized the importance of cultivating a culture of security awareness that prioritizes national unity and safeguards against the misuse of digital platforms.