The Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Apolonia Anele, has urged media professionals and military spokespersons to stand firm as ambassadors of truth in countering propaganda and shaping public perception, in support of national security.
Anele gave the advice at the closing of the Directorate of Army Public Relations Combined Third and Fourth Quarters Media Training Seminar 2025, held at the Nigerian Army Resource Centre, Abuja.
Lieutenant Colonel Anele said “the conversations at the seminar reaffirmed that in today’s complex security environment, battles are no longer won by firepower alone, but also by mastery of information.”
She stressed that propaganda and disinformation have become dangerous weapons in the hands of terrorists, secessionists and saboteurs seeking to undermine national stability.
“Our collective task is to ensure these falsehoods do not erode public trust, weaken national morale or undermine the sacrifices of our gallant troops,” she stated.
Anele underscored the indispensable role of the media as strategic partners in shaping narratives, building resilience and mobilising public support for security operations.
The seminar, she said, “deepened trust between the military and the media while charting a path for responsible, balanced, and conflict-sensitive reportage.”
The Acting Director commended media representatives, sister security spokespersons, serving and retired senior officers and participants for their commitment, describing the partnership as “stronger and unbreakable.”
“I charge you all to remain ambassadors of truth, defenders of professional ethics, and partners in building a safer, stronger, and more united Nigeria,” Anele added.