Army Urges Media to Help Counter Terrorists’ Propaganda
The Nigerian Army has called on journalists and media organisations to work closely with the military in countering terrorists’ propaganda and preventing false narratives that could weaken public confidence or dampen troops’ morale.
The Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Lt.-Col. Apollonia Anele, made the appeal yesterday in Abuja during the closing ceremony of the combined third and fourth quarter training seminar of the Directorate of Army Public Relations (DAPR).
She explained that the ongoing fight against insurgency and terrorism cannot be won by weapons alone, but also through the strategic use of credible information.
“The issues discussed in this seminar have shown that in today’s complex security environment, victory is not achieved by firepower alone. Propaganda, misinformation, and disinformation have become dangerous tools in the hands of terrorists, secessionists, and other enemies of the state,” Anele said.
“Our collective responsibility is to ensure these falsehoods do not erode public trust, weaken national morale, or undermine the sacrifices of our gallant troops who risk their lives daily to defend our country.”
The seminar, themed “Enhancing Responsible Media Reportage of Nigerian Army Operations in a Joint and Multi-Agency Environment for Enhanced National Security,” brought together officers from the army, other security agencies, and defence correspondents.
Lt.-Col. Anele emphasised that the army remains committed to its constitutional duty of defending Nigeria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, but achieving lasting peace requires close collaboration with the media.
“You are not bystanders in this fight,” she told participants. “You are strategic partners whose words and reports shape perception, build resilience, and mobilise public support for the armed forces.”
According to her, the seminar was designed to strengthen the relationship between the military and the media, build mutual trust, and promote responsible and conflict-sensitive reporting in national security matters.
