The Nigerian Army has called for the ethical and responsible use of social media, urging journalists, influencers and the public to avoid the negative deployment of digital platforms and AI tools that could undermine national security.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General. Waidi Shaibu, made the call at the Nigerian Army Social Media Seminar (45th Edition) held in Port Harcourt on February 18, 2026. The seminar was themed “Emerging Trends on Social Media: Impact on National Security.” He was represented at the event by Major General Osifo.
Shaibu urged media professionals and social media influencers to adhere to international best practices in journalism, stressing accuracy, accountability and truthful engagement, especially on security-related issues.
He warned that misinformation, fake news and AI-driven disinformation could demoralise troops, distort public perception and ultimately threaten national stability.
He noted that social media has evolved into a powerful communication tool with billions of global users, shaping public opinion and influencing national discourse, including security matters.
According to him, Nigeria’s complex security environment ranging from insurgency and banditry to militancy, cyber threats and violent crimes makes responsible communication crucial.
Shaibu emphasised a “whole-of-society” approach to security, encouraging collaboration between security agencies, media practitioners and citizens to support counter-terrorism and national security efforts. He added that truthful reporting fosters trust, strengthens national unity and honours the sacrifices of security personnel.
In her presentation titled “Promoting Peace and Trust Through Responsible Online Engagement,” Dr. Zainab Olabisi Saka urged social media users to think carefully before posting content. She cautioned against emotional or inflammatory posts, cyberbullying, hate speech and content capable of inciting ethnic tension or conflict.
She stressed that safeguarding national security is not solely the responsibility of security forces but also of citizens who use digital platforms daily.
Also speaking, Major General. Musa Etsu-Ndagi, Chief of Civil-Military Affairs, said the misuse of social media often fuels negative public sentiment and can contribute to civil unrest through the spread of false information. He called for a positive social media culture that discourages misinformation, hate speech and divisive narratives.
The seminar formed part of the Nigerian Army’s broader engagement strategy with stakeholders to promote responsible online behaviour and strengthen national security awareness.
Quoting former U.S. President Barack Obama, Shaibu reminded participants that social media is ultimately a tool whose impact depends on how individuals choose to use it, urging citizens to deploy it in ways that promote peace, unity and national development.
