Army warns against misinformation, AI content threat to security

By Kingsley Omonobi

The Nigerian Army has warned that misinformation, disinformation and artificial intelligence–generated content now pose serious threats to national security, stressing the growing role of information management in modern warfare.

The Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Apollonia Anele, stated this on Tuesday at the opening of the Directorate of Army Public Relations (DAPR) Combined First and Second Quarters 2026 Media Workshop in Abuja.

She noted that the information space has become a critical operational domain where public perception and strategic narratives can significantly influence security outcomes.

According to her, warfare is no longer confined to the physical battlefield, as the way information is interpreted and shared now shapes public understanding and operational effectiveness.

Anele warned that the rapid rise of digital platforms has accelerated the spread of false narratives, making it increasingly difficult for authorities to correct misinformation before it gains public traction.

She added that journalists and media organisations remain key partners in promoting national stability, building trust, and countering hostile information campaigns.

“The media remains a vital component of Nigeria’s national security framework,” she said, noting that responsible journalism helps strengthen institutional credibility, while unverified reports can undermine public confidence.

The Army spokesperson also said ongoing reforms within the Nigerian Army require stronger collaboration with the media to enhance transparency and improve civil-military relations.

She described the workshop as a strategic platform designed to deepen engagement between the military and media practitioners through training, knowledge sharing and improved communication coordination.

Anele commended the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for supporting reforms aimed at strengthening training, modernization and communication within the Army.

She said the workshop would focus on strategic communication, information management and coordination in joint and multi-agency operations.

According to her, such efforts are essential in an increasingly complex information environment where narratives can shape public trust and influence security outcomes.

The Army reiterated that managing information, building trust and ensuring credible communication are now core components of effective military operations in contemporary security challenges.

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