By Bavoriat Clara
The Nigerian Army on Thursday held the 42nd edition of its Social Media Seminar in Ibadan, Oyo State, with the theme “Promoting a Culture of Security Awareness Through the Responsible Use of Social Media.”
The programme brought together social media influencers, bloggers, students, youth leaders, security agencies, resource persons, and other stakeholders to explore the role of responsible online engagement in enhancing national security.
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, represented by the General Officer Commanding 2 Division Nigerian Army, Major General Lukman Omoniyi, said the seminar was part of the Nigerian Army’s “whole-of-society” approach to fulfilling its constitutional mandate.
He commended the people of Ibadan for their contributions to peace and security, recalling the city’s pivotal role in liberating Yoruba land during the historic Kiriji War of 1877–1893.
Major General Omoniyi stressed that with the right guidance and purposeful engagement, Nigerian youth could be a powerful force for unity and stability in the digital space.
He urged participants to use social media constructively and avoid sharing harmful or misleading content that could undermine national security.
In his welcome address, the Chief of Civil-Military Affairs, Major General Gold Chibuisi, described the seminar as a platform to bridge the gap between the influence of Nigeria’s digital generation and the operational efforts of the Army to safeguard the country.
He said the theme was chosen to address the dangers of misinformation, hate speech, and online incitement, noting that the misuse of social media had the potential to cause serious harm.
Citing a case in India where a man was lynched after false accusations spread online, Major General Chibuisi warned participants of the far-reaching consequences of unverified information. He said the seminar would provide practical tools for participants including students, NYSC members, specially abled persons, and media practitioners to promote harmony, shape positive public opinion, and contribute to peacebuilding through responsible online behaviour.
He reiterated the Nigerian Army’s commitment to open engagement with the public, highlighting existing complaint channels such as the toll-free hotline (193), civil-military legal desks at Army headquarters and formations nationwide, and verified social media handles.
He encouraged citizens to report grievances, including disputes or alleged misconduct involving personnel, assuring that such reports would be addressed transparently and promptly.
The event was attended by the Deputy Chief of Civil-Military Affairs (Psychological Operations), Major General Elmo Onoja; heads of other security agencies; representatives of the Oyo State Commissioner of Police; government officials; and eminent resource persons.
Participants engaged in interactive sessions aimed at strengthening collaboration between the Nigerian Army and the public in promoting security awareness through responsible social media use.
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