Army Chief Warns Misinformation Now Rivals Major Security Threats

(The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu)

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has said that misinformation and hostile propaganda have become major security threats, stressing the need for stronger collaboration between the military and the media.

Shaibu made this known on Tuesday in Abuja at the opening of the Directorate of Army Public Relations Combined First and Second Quarters Media Workshop 2026, where he was represented by the Chief of Civil Military Affairs (Army), Maj.-Gen. Musa Etsu-Ndagi.

He noted that modern adversaries increasingly rely on misinformation and psychological operations to undermine public confidence, making effective media engagement a force multiplier in joint and multi-agency security operations.

“When left unchecked, disinformation can be as damaging as a direct security threat,” he said.

The army chief described the workshop’s theme “Media Integration as a Force Multiplier for Joint and Multi-Agency Operational Success” as timely and strategic given contemporary security challenges.

He noted that the media has evolved beyond its traditional role of informing the public to become a critical instrument for shaping perceptions, projecting credible narratives, and countering adversarial propaganda.

Shaibu stressed that public support remains a strategic necessity for operational success, and that effective communication strengthens cooperation between security agencies and citizens.

He added that operational gains must be complemented by strategic communication to project accurate information, counter false narratives, and reinforce public confidence in national security institutions.

He urged media practitioners to highlight the sacrifices, gallantry, and professionalism of troops operating under difficult conditions, and reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to transforming into a more professional, adaptable, and combat-ready force within a joint and multi-agency environment.

Earlier, the acting Director of Army Public Relations, Col. Appolonia Anele, said the workshop was designed to deepen collaboration between the military and media professionals in addressing contemporary communication challenges.

She stressed the need for accurate, balanced, and responsible reporting to complement national security efforts and deny hostile elements the opportunity to exploit misinformation.

The workshop attracted military spokespersons, media executives, defence correspondents, communication experts, and other stakeholders from across the country.