The Nigerian Army has called on Nigerians to encourage troops serving in various operational theatres by acknowledging their sacrifices and avoiding the spread of misleading narratives that undermine the morale of personnel on social media.
According to an official signed statement by the President of the Defence Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DECAN), Mr. Odita Sunday, the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, made the appeal when she received the executive members of DECAN on a courtesy visit to the Army Headquarters in Abuja.
Colonel Anele described the growing wave of misinformation and disinformation circulating on digital platforms as a serious threat to national security, noting that while technological advancement has improved access to information, it has also accelerated the spread of false and unverified reports capable of eroding public trust and discouraging security personnel.
Highlighting the risks faced by troops in the line of duty, she referenced the recent rescue mission involving abducted students in Oyo State, during which an Army officer, a soldier and a police officer paid the ultimate price. She stressed that such sacrifices deserve public recognition rather than unfounded criticism questioning the military’s commitment to protecting the nation.
She maintained that negative online narratives diminish the morale of personnel who continue to risk their lives daily to safeguard Nigeria’s territorial integrity and protect citizens.
The Army spokesperson assured journalists that the Directorate of Army Public Relations would continue to provide prompt, accurate and verified information to support responsible reporting, explaining that official statements are only issued after due verification of facts.
She also encouraged defence correspondents to uphold the principles of professionalism, balance and accuracy in reporting security issues, while reaffirming the Nigerian Army’s commitment to sustaining its longstanding partnership with the media in promoting public understanding of military operations and national security.
Earlier, DECAN President, Mr. Odita Sunday, congratulated Colonel Anele on her appointment as the first female spokesperson of the Nigerian Army, describing the achievement as a reflection of her professionalism, competence and years of dedicated service.
He reiterated the association’s commitment to objective and factual coverage of defence and security matters and commended the Nigerian Army for the sacrifices of its personnel in confronting terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security challenges across the country.
Mr. Sunday also praised the Directorate of Army Public Relations for its capacity-building initiatives for defence correspondents and Army spokespersons, describing them as critical to improving professional and accurate reportage of military activities.
He called for stronger collaboration between the military and the media through regular engagements, timely dissemination of information, expanded media embedment opportunities, increased operational briefings and support for the establishment of a Defence Correspondents Press Centre, expressing confidence that closer cooperation would strengthen public trust in the Armed Forces and ensure Nigerians have access to credible and timely information on the activities of the Nigerian Army.
