army spokesperson says fight against insurgency must be won through information as well as firepower
The Nigerian Army has urged the media to play a more active role in countering terrorist propaganda, warning that false narratives and misinformation can erode public trust and troop morale, undermining national security efforts.
The call was made by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Lt.-Col. Apollonia Anele, at the closing ceremony of the combined third and fourth quarter training seminar of the Directorate of Army Public Relations (DAPR), held in Abuja on Thursday.
Speaking on the theme, “Enhancing Responsible Media Reportage of Nigerian Army Operations in a Joint and Multi-Agency Environment for Enhanced National Security,” Lt.-Col. Anele emphasized that modern warfare goes beyond the battlefield.
“In today’s complex security environment, the battle is not won by firepower alone, but equally by the mastery of information,” she said.
Propaganda: A Weapon in Terrorists’ Hands
Anele noted that propaganda, misinformation, and disinformation have become potent weapons used by terrorists, secessionists, and economic saboteurs to destabilize Nigeria and discredit the military.
“Our collective task is to ensure these falsehoods do not erode public trust, weaken national morale, or undermine the sacrifices of our gallant troops who daily confront enemies of our state,” she warned.
The seminar, attended by military personnel, intelligence agencies, security operatives, and defence correspondents, served as a platform to foster stronger collaboration between the military and the media.
Media as Strategic Partners
The Army spokesperson reaffirmed that the Nigerian Army remains committed to its constitutional role of defending Nigeria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, but emphasized that media cooperation is vital to success.
“You are not bystanders in this fight; you are strategic partners whose words and reports shape perception, build resilience, and mobilize public support for the armed forces,” she told journalists.
She added that the Army values balanced, responsible, and conflict-sensitive reporting, and called on media professionals to internalize and apply lessons learned from the seminar in their daily work.
“It is only by doing so that the enemies of the country can be denied the oxygen of propaganda,” Anele said.
Lt.-Col. Anele concluded by noting that the seminar has helped deepen trust between the Army and the media, and expressed optimism that this will translate into more effective communication strategies in the ongoing counter-terrorism efforts.
