Army Reviews Media Strategy To Tackle Misinformation In Operations 

The Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Lt.-Col. Olabisi Anele has urged Army spokespersons to confront the growing threat of misinformation and propaganda with professionalism, clarity, and integrity.

Anele gave the charge on Thursday in Abuja during the Directorate of Army Public Relations (DAPR) Combined Third and Fourth Quarters Media Training Seminar 2025.

The summit brought together military and media representatives to review strategies for effective communication.

She described information management as a crucial weapon in modern warfare and said the training aimed to strengthen collaboration between the Nigerian Army and the media in addressing false narratives.

According to her, the seminar served as a platform to refine the communication skills of Army public relations officers in strategic messaging, crisis response, and conflict-sensitive reporting, all geared toward promoting public trust in the military.

“In today’s complex security environment, battles are not won by firepower alone but by mastery of information. Propaganda and disinformation are now dangerous weapons in the hands of terrorists and saboteurs.

“Our task is to ensure these falsehoods do not erode public trust or undermine the sacrifices of our troops,” she said.

Anele stressed that Army public relations officers play a critical role in shaping factual and responsible narratives that reflect the courage and professionalism of Nigerian soldiers.

She noted that under the leadership of Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, the Chief of Army Staff, the Nigerian Army remains committed to defending the nation’s sovereignty, while relying on accurate reporting to consolidate its operational achievements.

“The media are not bystanders in this fight. They are strategic partners whose reports shape perception, strengthen resilience, and mobilise public support for our troops,” she added.

The acting director acknowledged the contributions of facilitators, participants, and security spokespersons from other agencies, saying the seminar strengthened inter-agency understanding and established a benchmark for improved military–media relations.

She urged participants to apply the lessons learnt to counter fake news, promote transparency, and project the Army’s dedication to peace and professionalism.

“Be ambassadors of truth, defenders of ethics, and partners in building a safer and stronger Nigeria,” she said.