Army tasks youths on social media usage to boost national security, unity

By Obansa Ibrahim, Lokoja

The Nigerian Army (NA) has urged the nation’s youths to use social media to promote responsible online conducts that enhance national security initiatives.

The call was made at the 38th Edition of the NA Social Media Seminar organised for Kogi youths in Thursday in Lokoja, with the theme: “Cultivating a Culture of Security Awareness Through Social Media”.

In their separate remarks, the Chief of Civil-Military Affairs (CCMA), Maj Gen Nosakhare C Ugbo, and the Special guest of honour at the seminar, Maj Gen Adeleke A Ayannuga, both implored the youth to responsibly use social media to promote national security, unity, and progress.

The two Army generals noted that 38th edition of the NA social media seminar, was aimed to promote responsible online conduct that enhances national security by educating citizens about the potential risks and rewards of their digital engagements.

Maj Gen Ugbo, who was represented by Brig Gen Bola S Keji, Director Psychological Operations Army Headquarters Department of Civil Military Affairs, stressed the need for citizens to work together to promote a safer and more informed online community.

“We must recognize that our words and actions echo far beyond our tablets, computers and other smart devices. Each post, share and comment can either support or hinder our collective efforts for a united Nigeria.

“We must use this power responsibly, ensuring our digital footprints contribute to a legacy of peace and prosperity.

“Let us embark on this enlightened journey together, where our united voices will amplify the core values of our culture and our commitment to security,” Ugbo said.

On his part, Maj Gen Adeleke A Ayannuga, Commander Nigerian Army Cyber Warfare Command, commended the participants for their presence describing it as a testament to their determination to be part of the online behavioural change for improved national security.

According to him, the NA.introduced the seminar as an essential platform aimed at empowering our youths with the requisite knowledge about our non-kinetic initiatives designed to enhance national security.

“This seminar seeks to equip the talented young minds of Kogi State with the critical information necessary to foster a safe and secure society.

“It also serves as a vital feedback mechanism, to refine our operations and improve service delivery to our communities,” Ayonuga said.

He expressed optimism that the seminar outcomes would broaden their understanding and also contribute significantly to the security and economic development of Lokoja and the North-Central Region.

He, therefore urged citizens to avoid sharing reckless harmful messages, videos, and voice notes that could jeopardise the nation’s peaceful coexistence.

“I am confident that this interactive experience will enrich your understanding of the importance of responsible social media usage for a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria,” he said.

The two Army Generals expressed their gratitude to Kogi youths for their unwavering support to the Nigerian Army in the fight against terrorism and other security vices, culminating to peace and security in the region, and urged people not to relent in supporting their Army.

They both commended the Acting Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Olufemi Oluyede, for his outstanding leadership and strategic vision in guiding the Nigerian Army.

In his remarks, the state Governor, Alh. Ahmed Ododo, applauded the Nigerian Army for organizing the seminar at a time when the nation faces dynamic and evolving security challenges.

“As we gather here today, we must acknowledge the ever-growing role social media plays in shaping perceptions, guiding public discourse, and driving action on important issues like national security.

“Security awareness is a collective responsibility, one that requires constant engagement, education, and collaboration across all sectors of society.

“Our approach to building this awareness must adapt to the times, utilizing the platforms and methods that resonate with today’s generation – social media being at the forefront of these tools,” Ododo said.

The governor, who was represented by the State Security Adviser, Cdre Jerry Omodara rtd, noted that social media was not just a space for personal interactions but a global stage for conversations that influence real-world outcomes.

He enjoined citizens to cultivate a culture of security awareness that equips them with the right knowledge to distinguish between fact and fiction, to recognize credible sources, and to understand their role in maintaining peace and security within their communities.

He, however noted that Kogi State had made significant strides in utilizing digital platforms to foster public safety through critical updates on crime prevention, road safety, disaster management, and community policing initiatives.

He added: “I commend the Army for taking the initiative to engage the public through this seminar and for its commitment to leveraging social media as a tool for promoting security awareness”.

“As we move forward, it is essential that we continue to build on the successes of initiatives like this seminar.

“Collaboration between the Nigerian Army, state governments, civil society organizations, and the private sector is key to ensuring that social media remains a space for positive engagement and growth.

“Together, we can harness the power of social media to build a more secure and united Nigeria”.

The governor reaffirmed the commitment of Kogi Government to working alongside the Nigerian Army and all security agencies to foster a culture of security awareness.

In her presentation titled: “Harnessing Social Media Impact for Improved National Security”, a Resource person, Dr Ehiz Odegie, urged participants to support the NA in their efforts to keep the country safe.

Odegie, who is the Executive Director, Steady Hope Support Initiative, stressed the need for social media users to influence deliberately for good and promote security.

According to her, estimated statistics for data-reportal as at January 2024, shows that Nigeria has 36.75 million active social media users which is an estimated 45.5 per cent of the total population.

Some of the participants: Godblessing Osita, Joy Tabitha and described the seminar as the first its kind in the state, adding that were now better equipped on social media usage to pronote national security, unity prosperous Nigeria

The Nigerian Army also provided free medical services for the participants at sidelines of the seminar as well as award presentations.