By Joy Odor
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, has raised the alarm over the growing threat of disinformation and misinformation, describing them as weapons of destabilization in modern warfare.
He emphasized that Nigeria’s Armed Forces is ramping up collaboration with both domestic and international stakeholders to tackle these evolving security challenges.
Represented by Rear Admiral A.M. Haruna, General Musa delivered the message during the inaugural Diplomatic and Security International Conference organized by the Diplomatic Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DICAN) in Abuja.
“Disinformation is not just a media problem it is a national security threat,” the CDS stated. “In the age of hybrid warfare, misinformation can erode public trust, destabilize communities, and embolden criminal networks.”
General Musa stressed the Armed Forces’ commitment to forging stronger ties with the media to ensure accurate and responsible reporting, particularly from conflict zones and regions impacted by cross-border crimes.
The high-level gathering attracted diplomats, security chiefs, intelligence professionals, scholars, and journalists, who examined the rising global security risks tied to information manipulation and fake news.
Held under the theme, “Diplomacy, Security, and the Media in a Changing World Order,” the conference featured expert-led panel sessions and papers addressing cyber warfare, media integrity, international conflict de-escalation, and the implications of geopolitical instability.
Participants at the conference advocated for the institutionalization of regular dialogue between the media and security agencies, joint training programmes, and the establishment of a national fact-checking task force to combat coordinated misinformation campaigns threatening Nigeria’s stability.
The event also served as a platform to recognize excellence in diplomacy, security, and ethical journalism.
Among the honorees was General Musa, who was lauded for his leadership in strengthening civil-military relations and promoting responsible information management.
