Nigerian Army Organizes Social Media Seminar To Foster Youth Participation In National Security

Nigerian Army Organizes Social Media Seminar To Foster Youth Participation In National Security

The Army Headquarters Department of Civil-Military Affairs (AHQ DCMA)organized its 38th Social Media Seminar themed “Cultivating a Culture of security awareness through Harnessing Social Media at Christozera Hall, Reverton Hotel, GRA Lokoja, on 28 November 2024.

The Special Guest Of Honor, Commander Nigerian Army Cyber Warfare Command Major General AA Ayannuga, highlighted the critical role of the Nigerian Youth in fostering national security. He enjoined participants to avoid the spread of harmful or deceptive content that could undermine social harmony and stability with severe consequences for security operations. He encouraged participants to utilize social media to support the Army’s non-kinetic operations and enhance community inclusion.

Earlier in his welcome remarks, the Chief of Civil-Military Affairs Army, Major General Nosakhare Ugbo ably represented by the Director Psychological Operations Brigadier General BS Keji, reiterated that the seminar aimed to address the intricacies of social media in a volatile security environment. He emphasized the need for youths to utilize social media platforms responsibly to foster national security and combat fake news. He also expressed gratitude to the Acting Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, for his strategic guidance and unwavering support in making the event a success. Major General Ugbo further highlighted the transformative power of social media in shaping public perception and fostering national unity when used appropriately. He called on participants to engage actively in the discussions and share insights to promote informed digital engagements. He noted that the seminar would also showcase the Nigerian Army’s non-kinetic initiatives, emphasizing the importance of civil-military cooperation in addressing security challenges.

In his keynote address The Executive Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, who was ably represented by the Security Adviser to Kogi State Government, Commander Jerry Omodara Rtd commended the Nigerian Army for organizing the 38th Social Media Seminar, emphasizing the role of social media in fostering security awareness and public safety. He highlighted its dual potential to promote unity or spread misinformation, stressing the need for responsible online behavior. The Governor pledged Kogi State’s commitment to collaborating with the Army and other stakeholders to leverage social media for peace and national security.

The resource persons at the event, Dr. Ehiz Odigie and Mrs. Zainab Olabisi Saka, delivered insightful presentations on critical topics. Dr. Odigie spoke on “Leveraging Social Media Impacts for Improved National Security,” while Mrs. Saka discussed the subject “Encouraging Responsible Social Media Use in Safeguarding National Security.”

Highlights of the event were, interactive session which focused on dialogue among military personnel, security agencies,and social media influencers, presentation of souvenirs and group photograph.