Army Urges Youths to Use Social Media Responsibly, Links Patriotism to National Security

The Nigerian Army has called on young Nigerians to use social media responsibly, warning that misuse of online platforms poses serious threats to national security and social cohesion.

The Chief of Civil-Military Affairs, Maj. Gen. Gold Chibuisi, made the appeal on Thursday in Owerri during the 44th edition of the Nigerian Army Social Media Seminar themed “Promoting a Culture of Security Awareness Through the Responsible Use of Social Media.”

Chibuisi said the two-day seminar, targeted at influencers, bloggers, and young citizens, seeks to address the growing link between misinformation online and insecurity across the country.

He noted that social media can either strengthen or weaken national stability, depending on how users deploy it.

“The Nigerian Army remains committed to protecting Nigeria’s territorial integrity, and therefore urges us all to create a peaceful and secure nation where progress and prosperity can thrive,” he said.

Chibuisi commended the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, for his leadership and for providing the resources needed to sustain civil-military engagement programmes across the country.

He urged youths to show patriotism by verifying information before sharing, avoiding hate speech, and resisting content that fuels division or undermines security efforts.

In his remarks, the Special Guest of Honour and Commander, Nigerian Army Armoured Corps, Maj. Gen. Obinna Ajunwa, described security as a collective duty requiring the participation of all citizens.

“We must strive to be ambassadors of unity and great online citizens with a passion for patriotism,” Ajunwa said.

Also speaking, the General Officer Commanding 82 Division, Maj. Gen. Olufemi Olatoye, advised Nigerians to report suspicious activities directly to security agencies rather than amplifying them online, saying misinformation only worsens national insecurity.

A guest speaker, Prof. Ehiz Odigie-Okpataku, urged young people to understand the legal boundaries governing social media usage.

“Know the law, use the law, and do not be ignorant of the law,” he said.

The seminar, attended by representatives of security agencies, traditional and religious leaders, and media influencers, forms part of the Army’s non-kinetic approach to building trust and strengthening collaboration with the public in tackling security challenges.