NIGERIAN ARMY CAUTIONS AGAINST UNDERMINING NATIONAL SECURITY THROUGH FAKE SOCIAL MEDIA CONTENTS 14-08-24
By Sadiq Aminu The Nigerian Army has cautioned Nigerians against the use of the Social Media to spread fake and unsubstantiated news to undermine national security.
The Chief, Civil Military Affairs, Major General Nosakhare Ugbo gave the warning in Minna Niger State at the Thirty Fifth Nigerian Army Social Media Seminar.
He observed that the social media has immense advantages in disseminating positive messages but regrettably, some people are using the platform to spread malicious contents.
Major General Ugbo pointed out that the event is part of non kinetic strategies adopted by the military to invite and draw the attention of key players to proper use of the Social Media.
The Chief, Civil Military Affairs, said the military would not relent in strengthening it’s relations with civilians in the protection of the country.
Speaking on the theme of the Seminar, Harnessing the Social Media for National Security and Development, a resource person, Dr Ehiz Odigie put the figure of social media users to in Nigeria to over Thirty Six million.
She said curbing the spread of fake Social Media messages should not be the responsibility of the Government alone as every citizen has a role to play in verifying sources, avoiding fake blogs and shunning inflammatory comments.
In a goodwill message, the Acting Governor of Niger State, Comrade Yakubu Garba explained that the social media has become a powerful tool in shaping perceptions, influencing decisions, and bridging communication.
While calling on Nigerians to appreciate the sacrifices of the Nigerian Army in the digital world, Comrade Garba expressed confidence that the event would empower social media influencers, bloggers and youths to become more responsible and credible voices of truth and integrity.
The session among other activities, featured another paper presentation with a sub theme Understanding The importance of the Social Media for the Promotion of National Security.