The National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, highlighted the growing significance of social media as a national security priority. Speaking at a meeting in Abuja with spokespersons of organizations under the Strategic Communication Interagency Policy Committee, Ribadu noted that the misuse of social media posed both local and global threats.
Ribadu pointed out that the National Security Strategy (NSS) had been under review since its last revision in 2015, leading to the launch of the 2019 version. He emphasized the need for media managers in defense, security, and response agencies to adopt new approaches to engaging with the public and countering disinformation from adversaries.
The NSA stressed the need for proactive and strategic communication management in national security. He urged members of the Strategic Communication Interagency Policy Committee to address the divisive use of media and social platforms by some individuals to create rifts between citizens and governments.
Ribadu also highlighted the challenges posed by fake news, misinformation, and disinformation, calling for a concerted effort to counter these threats to national security and public engagement. He underscored the importance of integrating strategic communication into all operational aspects, including information operations, psychological operations, public diplomacy, and public relations.
In engaging with the public, communicators in the security sector were encouraged to adopt strategies that recognize the sacrifices of service personnel. Ribadu emphasized the need to tell the stories of these personnel and acknowledge their contributions as part of a broader national strategic communication program.
The NSA concluded by reaffirming the commitment to ensure that government communication aligns with President Bola Tinubu's vision and directives, with messages that are well-coordinated and in line with national security objectives and values.
