National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, highlighted the urgent need to address the negative impacts of social media, labelling it as both a local and global security threat.
During a recent meeting with defence, security, and response agencies spokespersons, Ribadu expressed deep concerns over the rampant spread of fake news, misinformation, and disinformation, underscoring their detrimental effects on national security and public discourse.
Ribadu stressed the pivotal role of strategic communication in safeguarding national security, urging spokespersons to collaborate effectively in combating media manipulation orchestrated by terrorist groups and criminal elements.
He called for the implementation of a comprehensive action plan to actively engage Nigerians, foster trust, and effectively counter violent extremism.
Furthermore, Ribadu advocated for the integration of strategic communication across all operational domains, including information operations and public relations, to effectively showcase the country’s national power and values.
He stated, “Across the world, we have also assessed the adept use of social media platforms by those who seek power to shape public opinion against citizens. This threat is both global and local and presents an immediate national security priority.
“The urgency to prepare and be proactive in our national security strategic communication management is now, and the spokespersons have a critical role to play,” he added.
Ribadu said in engaging with the public, communicators in the security sector should adopt strategies that take into account the personal sacrifices of service personnel.
Speaking further, he articulated, “Upon the sweat and blood of service personnel and the men and women who protect us daily, we must build a narrative of resilience and mobilise our people.
“We must tell their stories and sing their praise as part of a broader national strategic communication programme.
“As spokespersons, you have a critical role to play in effective governance communication to project our results and reach audiences at home and abroad.
“Countering fake news will require that we are ahead of the news and proactively update the public,” he stressed.
