The Nigerian Army has raised concern over the spread of fake reports alleging the defeat of troops on the frontline, warning that such misinformation poses a threat to national security and ongoing counter-insurgency operations against Boko Haram in the North-East.
The Theatre Commander, Operation Hadin Kai, Maj.-Gen. Abdulsalam Abubakar, stated this on Tuesday in Maiduguri during an engagement with media practitioners covering defence and frontline operations.
Abubakar said modern warfare is not only fought on the battlefield but also in the information space, where propaganda is often used to influence public perception and undermine military morale.
He stressed that inaccurate reporting could distort realities on ground and weaken national resolve if not properly checked.
The commander expressed concern over unverified social media reports suggesting operational setbacks and troop defeat, describing them as misleading and harmful to ongoing operations.
He cautioned against the activities of individuals without professional journalistic training who circulate unverified security information online, noting that such actions fuel misinformation and complicate military efforts.
Abubakar maintained that Operation Hadin Kai has continued to record operational successes, including the neutralisation of terrorist elements and disruption of their logistics networks.
He also noted that insurgents have adopted evolving tactics, including blending into civilian communities, which complicates identification and engagement.
The Theatre Commander called for stronger collaboration between the military and the media to ensure accurate reporting and responsible communication.
He urged journalists to verify sensitive security-related information with official sources before publication.
Abubakar added that Operation Hadin Kai remains committed to both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches, including community engagement, infrastructure support, and humanitarian interventions aimed at stabilising liberated communities in the North-East.