By Gabriel Ameh, The Legit News
In its continued effort to address Nigeria’s internal security challenges and foster seamless joint military operations, the Nigerian Army School of Public Relations and Information (NASPRI) has organized a 5-day groundbreaking media workshop with the theme: “Leveraging Digital and Social Media Influence for Effective Military Operations within a Joint Environment”.
The event sought to equip military personnel and media professionals with the skills and strategies required for modern communication in the context of security.
In his opening remarks, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Major General Olufemi O. Oluyede, who was represented by Chief of Civil Military Affairs, Major General Nosakhare Ugbo underscored the importance of communication as a critical element of military operations.
He noted that contemporary security challenges, such as terrorism, insurgency, and banditry, require not only boots on the ground, but also innovative communication strategies to manage perceptions and rally public support.
“Today’s battles are not won solely on the battlefield but in the information space. Effective use of digital platforms and strategic communication enables us to counter misinformation, reinforce public confidence, and enhance operational synergy among security agencies,” he stated.
Major Gen. Oluyede further urged participants to view strategic communication as a weapon, highlighting its potential to shape narratives, influence public opinion, and deter adversaries.
He emphasized the critical role of media and communication in military operations, adding that the dynamic nature of modern warfare necessitates a robust engagement with the media and strategic use of digital tools to counter misinformation and enhance operational transparency.
“Strategic communication is not just a tool; it is a weapon in our arsenal. By leveraging digital and social media platforms, we can effectively counter insurgencies, enhance collaboration among joint forces, and foster public trust in our operations,” he remarked.
General Oluyede stressed that the media’s role in shaping public perception and garnering support for military operations cannot be overstated. He urged participants to ensure that the synergy between the Army and the media is maintained and enhanced.
“This is why the importance of the media for a successful military operation cannot be overemphasized,” he noted.
On his part, Brig. Gen. Nwachukwu Onyema, the Director of Army Public Relations, highlighted the importance of collaboration between the media and military in maintaining national security. He urged media professionals to avoid sensational reporting and instead, focus on narratives that promote unity and support for security operations
Furthermore, he called for strengthened relationships between the military and the press while urging journalists to avoid sensational reporting that could jeopardize military operations or create panic among citizens.
“Our collective goal is to maintain national security. While the military protects the nation’s sovereignty, the media shapes public perception. We must work together to ensure that our messages promote unity, peace, and understanding,” he said.
Major General Nwachukwu commended the media for their timely reportage of the military’s successes and achievements, while also charging them to redouble their efforts.
He expressed concern over the lukewarm attitude towards the military by some sections of the media, which has generated public concern and debate. The Director also warned about the potential threat to national security posed by social media influencers who spread hoaxes or distorted information about the military.
General Nwachukwu thanked the COAS for approving the upgrading of NASPRI to a world-class training institution.
In his welcome address, the Acting Commandant NASPRI, Lieutenant Colonel AY Ngulde, said the institution has trained over 4500 students since its inception in April 2010.
He noted that the school has reviewed its curriculum to accommodate new ideas in public relations practice and information management, including collaborations with renowned professors and doctors from the University of Abuja to enhance the training and teaching of its students.
The 5-day workshop brought together personnel of the Directorate of Army Public Relations, its PROs across all the units and formation of the Nigerian Army, and PROs of other security agencies, academia, media practitioners, resource persons, and other stakeholders to discuss the importance of digital influence in promoting national security.
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