The Nigerian Army has called on citizens to stop sharing false claims on social media that weaken the spirit of soldiers serving the nation. Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Col. Appolonia Anele, stated that misinformation has emerged as a significant threat to national security during a meeting with the Defence Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DECAN) in Abuja. She pointed out that while digital platforms improve communication, they also facilitate the spread of inaccuracies that damage public trust in military institutions.
Col. Anele stressed that troops working in various operational zones require support rather than unfounded criticism. She highlighted the tragic loss of three officers—an Army officer, a soldier, and a police officer—during a recent rescue mission in Oyo State. She expressed frustration that some individuals ignore these sacrifices and falsely claim the military is inactive, noting that such rhetoric harms the morale of those protecting the country.
To counter this, the Army plans to prioritize the release of verified information to assist journalists. Col. Anele encouraged defense reporters to uphold high standards of accuracy and balance. DECAN President Sunday Odita praised Col. Anele for her historic appointment as the first female Army spokesperson. He assured the military that the association remains dedicated to fair reporting and advocated for closer cooperation, including regular briefings and better access for journalists to ensure the public receives credible updates on security matters.
