Adversaries using cyber propaganda to erode trust in Armed Forces – Defence spokesman

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The new Director Defence Information (DDI), Brig.-Gen. Samaila Uba, has warned that Nigeria’s adversaries are increasingly exploiting the digital environment to distort facts and erode public trust in the Armed Forces.

Uba stated this on Tuesday in Abuja, while taking over command from the former defence spokesman, Brig.-Gen. Tukur Gusau.

While calling for collective action to safeguard Nigeria’s information space against the growing threat of misinformation and cyber propaganda which he described as a major challenge to national security.

The new Defence spokesperson, however, said the Directorate under his watch would strengthen the country’s defence communication architecture through a four-point strategic agenda anchored on Unity of Purpose, Timeliness and Transparency, Digital Innovation, and Effective Media Relations.

“In an era defined by rapid information exchange and digital influence, strategic communication is not merely a tool, it is a force multiplier.

“Adversaries exploit vulnerabilities in our information ecosystem to divide us. We will not cede ground,” he said.

The DDI disclosed plans to establish a rapid-response team for countering false narratives, enhance fact-checking collaboration with the media, and deploy digital tools for real-time monitoring of emerging threats.

He stressed that credible communication was vital to sustaining public confidence in the Armed Forces, noting that proactive information management would help deter misinformation and strengthen national unity.

Uba called for synergy among the public relations units of the Army, Navy and Air Force, as well as other security agencies, to ensure a coherent and credible national defence narrative.

Earlier in his remarks, Gusau expressed gratitude to the military leadership and the Nigerian media for their support during his tenure.

He described his stewardship as a period of strategic communication, transparency, and proactive engagement.

He said his time in office was guided by a firm resolve to uphold integrity and elevate the image of the Armed Forces of Nigeria through timely and credible information dissemination.

“My stewardship was anchored on fostering trust between the military and the Nigerian people, amplifying the sacrifices of our troops, and ensuring accurate, timely reporting.

“Every decision and every strategy was driven by the desire to protect the image of our Armed Forces while advancing national security,” he said.

(NAN)