The Nigerian Army has called on the media to collaborate with the military in countering terrorists’ propaganda, stressing the need to shield public trust and troops’ morale from false narratives spread by enemies of the state.
Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Lt.-Col. Apollonia Anele, made the appeal at the closing session of the combined third and fourth quarters’ training seminar for the Directorate of Army Public Relations (DAPR) yesterday in Abuja.
She explained that the fight against insurgency and terrorism could not be secured by firepower alone but also by mastering the spread of credible information.
The seminar, themed Enhancing Responsible Media Reportage of Nigerian Army Operations in a Joint and Multi-Agency Environment for Enhanced National Security, was attended by army officials, representatives of sister services, security and intelligence bodies, as well as defence correspondents.
Anele observed that propaganda, misinformation, and disinformation had become dangerous tools in the hands of terrorists and other non-state actors.
The Army spokesperson said this was why the media must work hand in hand with the military to reduce the effects of such propaganda tools on national security.
She said: “Over the past days, we have engaged in rigorous discussions, insightful presentations, and stimulating exchanges that have sharpened our perspectives on the vital interface between the military and the media in safeguarding our nation.
“The issues dissected in this seminar have underscored a clear truth, that in today’s complex security environment, the battle is not won by firepower alone, but equally by the mastery of information. Propaganda, misinformation, and disinformation have become dangerous weapons in the hands of terrorists, secessionists, economic saboteurs, and their collaborators.
“Our collective task is to ensure these falsehoods do not erode public trust, weaken national morale or undermine the sacrifices of our gallant troops who daily confront enemies of our state.”
The spokesperson reaffirmed that the Nigerian Army was committed to its constitutional role of defending the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
“Yet, to achieve lasting victory, the cooperation of the media is indispensable. You are not bystanders in this fight; you are strategic partners whose words and reports shape perception, build resilience, and mobilise public support for the armed forces,” Anele said.
She noted that the seminar was designed to create a platform for reinforcing Army-media relations, building trust, and charting a direction for more balanced, responsible, and conflict-sensitive reporting.
She urged participants to put into practice the insights gained, whether in the newsroom, on the field, or during deployments.
“It is only by doing so that the enemies of the country can be denied the oxygen of propaganda,” Anele said.
