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How fake narratives, disinformation on battlefield are shaping Nigeria’s security space

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How fake narratives, disinformation on battlefield are shaping Nigeria’s security space

By: Zagazola Makama

In Nigeria’s dynamic security environment, the contest is no longer limited to guns, troops and airstrikes, as the information space has become an active front where competing narratives shape public perception. While some reports are factual, others are misleading or exaggerated, prompting scrutiny among security stakeholders about the impact of disinformation on trust, decision-making and ongoing operations.

In recent days, the pattern has been consistent: major security incidents are swiftly followed by a flood of conflicting reports, exaggerated casualty figures and unverified claims, many of which gain traction before official information becomes available.

The latest example is the military airstrike on a Boko Haram enclave or Market in Jilli, Gubio Local Government Area of Borno.

Within hours of the operation, the media space was awash with reports alleging mass civilian casualties. Figures varied widely, some reports claimed 50 killed, others 159, while some went as high as 200. Yet, available information from official and emergency sources tells a different story.

The area targeted, Jilli, is widely regarded by military authorities as a “no man’s land” an enclave long abandoned by civilians and occupied by insurgents. Access to the location is highly restricted, with movement largely controlled by terrorist elements.

Even state emergency officials in neighbouring Yobe confirmed that while some injured persons from Geidam were treated, they could not independently verify casualty figures from the strike zone.

This prompts a critical question: who is counting the dead in a territory largely inaccessible to civilians and government authorities? The answer lies in the speed and structure of modern information flows.

In today’s digital ecosystem, news travels faster than verification. Initial reports often based on speculation or unverified sources are quickly amplified across social media and picked up by multiple outlets. One credible medium can mislead the whole of the Nigeria’s media with a narrative that is entirely not true and by the time accurate information emerges, the narrative may already be firmly established in public consciousness.

A similar pattern was observed in the reporting of the recent attack in Benisheik. Early reports claimed that 17 people, including a Brigade Commander, were killed. However, subsequent official confirmation put the figure at four. Burial for the four slain soldiers and officers will be carried out on Tuesday 14 April 2026.

Despite the correction, the earlier narrative had already circulated widely, shaping public perception of the incident. Beyond casualty figures, misinformation has also extended to operational details.

In the aftermath of the Benisheik attack, claims surfaced alleging that the Brigade Commander died due to obsolete weapons and faulty Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles, as well as suggestions that requests for better equipment had been denied. Some even went as far as publishing an entirely fictitious report claiming the general confessed to someone and wrote to Abuja many times.

Military high command and sources in the Brigade however, dismissed these claims as unfounded, noting that no verifiable evidence was provided to support them. Even the MRAP that was burnt in the attack was not because it was faulty, it was because the driver got panicked and ran away.

Perhaps more concerning is the emergence of content that goes beyond misinformation into the realm of psychological influence. One such example is a viral audio message circulating online, in which a speaker makes sweeping allegations linking government officials and security institutions to sponsorship of bandits to Saudi Arabia.

The audio, attributed in some platforms to a figure identified as “English Alhaji,” alleges that the Nigerian authorities are collaborating with armed groups and even facilitating foreign travel for them.

While the claims are serious, and supporting the conspiracy theories on peoples head, they are presented without names, locations, or supporting evidence. It starts with specific accusations on a certain Local Government Chiarman, then gradually expands into a broader claim of institutional betrayal.

The message repeatedly suggests that those responsible for protecting the country are themselves complicit in insecurity. But who are those saddled with the responsibility of protecting the country? (Military and Government). It is clear that the narrative was designed to erode trust in the country’s security institutions and such messaging often relies on emotional intensity rather than verifiable facts.

References to personal danger such as claims that the speaker may be assassinated for revealing the information are also used to enhance perceived credibility and discourage scrutiny. In conflict-affected regions, the impact of such narratives can be immediate and far-reaching.

When trust in security agencies is weakened, civilians may become less willing to share intelligence, report suspicious activities or cooperate with patrols all of which are critical to counter-insurgency efforts.

The spread of disinformation also risks undermining non-kinetic approaches to security.
In several parts of the country, authorities have adopted strategies such as dialogue, amnesty programmes and community reconciliation to reduce violence. However, when these initiatives are stripped of context, they can be misrepresented as evidence of collusion.

The trend is not limited to local incidents. In December, a US-based humanitarian organization issued a grave warning that armed groups are planning coordinated attacks against Christian communities in northern Nigeria during the Christmas period.

The report titled “Concerns about possible Christmas Day attacks” by Mr Judd Saul, the founder of Equipping the Persecuted, says he has privileged information that there are plots by terrorists and bandits to attack rural communities in the councils and kill as many people as possible on Christmas Day.
“They are gathering forces around the Plateau and Nasarawa border, along the Nasarawa-Benue border, and along the Nasarawa-Kaduna border. They are planning to hit on Christmas Day in Riyom, Bokkos, and Barkin Ladi,” Saul said during an Emergency Summit on Crimes against Christians that was held at the US Capitol on Tuesday, December 16. Christmas had came and passed and no mass attacks took place on Christmas day on Christians. The claims were understood to be plot by the foreign NGO, to promote campaign of genocide against Christians in order to destabilized the country along religious lines.

In the past week, claims circulated that more than 1,000 Boko Haram fighters had been transported into Abuja, allegedly prompting US Embassy to shut down operations and evacuated its staff because Abuja is no longer safe is another FAKE news which authorities have since dismissed the claim as FALSE.

Within the same day, another viral video resurfaced claiming that terrorists were advancing on Abuja amid heavy gunfire. The viral report had since been described by the FCT
Commissioner of Police, Ahmed Sanusi, false and misleading.

Another viral post emerged again and being circulated widely on Watssap groups titled “Viewers discretion advised” The 25 female students abducted from a school in Maga, Kebbi state on Sunday been slaughtered like fowls.Honestly this is getting out of hand.

Unfortunately, that video from Burkina Faso had circulated since early 2025 after a terrorists organization carried out mass slaughter of some men in a certain community. But in the circulated message, it was presented as the 25 female students abducted in Maga, kebbi state.

Similarly, viral posts attempted to link Nigeria to a purported social media statement by U.S. President Donald Trump on purported message which allegedly emanate from Iran. President Tump lashed out on CNN for relying on the report. But it turned out that Mr Trump claims
that was also found to be baseless. The statement never emanate from Nigeria but Iran themselves.

These incidents illustrate how misinformation can transcend borders, drawing in global figures and institutions to lend credibility to false narratives. The cumulative effect of these developments is the gradual erosion of “trust architecture” between the public and state institutions.

In counter-insurgency operations, trust is not just a social value, it is an operational asset.
Without it, intelligence gathering becomes more difficult, community policing weakens, and early warning systems begin to fail.

For media organisations, the challenge is balancing speed with accuracy. In a competitive information environment, the pressure to publish quickly can sometimes override the need for verification. However, it is emphasise that credibility remains the most valuable asset of journalism. For the public, the responsibility lies in critical consumption. Not every viral message is factual, and not every widely shared claim is true.

Majority of media organizations also blamed delayed official responses from state institutions for the spread of conflicting narratives during security crises, noting that information gaps often compel media organisations to rely on unverified sources. They said the absence of timely and authoritative updates creates room for speculation, misinformation and exaggerated reporting, which can mislead the public and undermine ongoing operations.

According to them, government agencies responsible for information management must act swiftly to bridge this gap by providing accurate and prompt briefings. State institutions charged with the responsibility of information are not doing enough. The people need to be properly informed,”they said.

The stakeholders emphasised that improving communication and ensuring consequences for misinformation are critical to restoring public trust and maintaining stability during crises.

Zagazola Makama is a Counter Insurgency Expert and Security Analysts in the Lake Chad Region.

How fake narratives, disinformation on battlefield are shaping Nigeria’s security space

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Military

Establishment of Army Depot in South-East Reflects FG’s Commitment to National Unity, Security and inclusiveness– COAS

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July 9, 2026

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Establishment of Army Depot in South-East Reflects FG’s Commitment to National Unity, Security and inclusiveness– COAS

By Zagazola Makama

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has said that the establishment of the Depot Nigerian Army in Amasiri-Edda, in Ebonyi State is a clear demonstration of the Federal Government’s commitment to national security, inclusiveness, national integration and balanced development across the country.

Shaibu made the remarks while addressing dignitaries during activities marking the inauguration of the newly established military training institution in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State.

According to the Army Chief, the depot, which is the first primary recruit training institution of the Nigerian Army in the South-East geopolitical zone, represents a strategic investment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration in strengthening national security and promoting equitable distribution of critical national institutions.

“The establishment of this depot reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to national security, inclusiveness, national integration and balanced development,” Shaibu said.

He described the inauguration of the facility as a landmark achievement in the ongoing transformation of the Nigerian Army under President Tinubu, noting that it would significantly enhance the Army’s capacity to train professionally competent and combat-ready soldiers.

The COAS disclosed that the first set of recruits trained at the new depot would graduate the following day, describing the event as a historic milestone not only for the institution but also for the evolution of recruit training within the Nigerian Army.

“Their graduation will not only mark the successful completion of basic military training but will also usher in a new chapter in the evolution of recruit training in the Nigerian Army,” he said.

Shaibu explained that since its establishment, the depot had steadily developed into a modern recruit training institution designed to produce disciplined, professional and capable soldiers in line with the Nigerian Army’s transformation agenda and long-term strategic vision.

He said the facility forms part of the Federal Government’s broader efforts to modernise the Armed Forces and expand military capacity to address Nigeria’s dynamic security environment.

The Army Chief expressed profound appreciation to President Tinubu for approving the establishment of the institution and providing the necessary resources for its successful implementation.

He noted that the new depot would not only improve military training capacity but also strengthen the strategic importance of the South-East within Nigeria’s security architecture.

According to him, locating the institution in Ebonyi State underscores the government’s determination to ensure that all parts of the country benefit from national development initiatives while fostering greater national cohesion.

Shaibu also commended Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru for his unwavering support towards the establishment and successful take-off of the depot.

He said the state government provided accommodation, logistics and other essential support that contributed significantly to the successful training of the pioneer batch of recruits.

“From facilitating the historic groundbreaking ceremony to providing sustained support for this institution, the governor has demonstrated remarkable patriotism and an enduring commitment to national security,” he said.

The COAS further described the Government and people of Ebonyi State, as well as the entire South-East, as indispensable partners in the establishment and growth of the institution.

He also acknowledged the contributions of traditional rulers, political leaders, religious leaders, community leaders and residents of the state for creating a peaceful and conducive environment for the depot to thrive.

Shaibu reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to deepening its partnership with host communities and stakeholders, stressing that sustained collaboration between the military and the people remains critical to enhancing national security and maintaining lasting peace.

According to him, the state’s sustained support demonstrates a strong commitment to national security, peace and development.

The Army Chief further commended traditional rulers, community leaders, members of the State Development Committee, political and religious leaders, and other stakeholders for fostering a peaceful environment that enabled the successful establishment of the Depot.

He reaffirmed that the Nigerian Army values its partnership with the state and pledged to continue strengthening collaboration in pursuit of improved security and national development.

The COAS also paid tribute to distinguished retired senior military officers from the region for their contributions to the growth and development of the Nigerian Army.

The establishment of the Depot Nigerian Army in Ebonyi is widely regarded as one of the landmark military infrastructure projects under the Tinubu administration, aimed at expanding recruit training capacity while promoting inclusiveness, national integration and balanced development across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.

Establishment of Army Depot in South-East Reflects FG’s Commitment to National Unity, Security and inclusiveness– COAS

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Troops, CJTF Arrest Suspected ISWAP Informant Accused of Identifying Kidnap Targets in Borno

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July 9, 2026

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Troops, CJTF Arrest Suspected ISWAP Informant Accused of Identifying Kidnap Targets in Borno

By Zagazola Makama

Operatives of the Military Intelligence Brigade (MIB) under Sector 3 of Operation HADIN KAI, working in collaboration with the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), have arrested a suspected Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) informant in Monguno Local Government Area of Borno State.

Intelligence sources told Zagazola Makama that the suspect, identified as Isa Janyu, 30, was tracked and apprehended at about 7:20 p.m. on July 4 during a targeted intelligence-led operation at Kasuwan Shanu in Monguno town.

According to the sources, items recovered from the suspect included a Tecno mobile phone, a knife, a comb, a mirror, and ₦10,000 in cash.

Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect is a native of Arianna Mai Massallachi Village in Kukawa Local Government Area and allegedly specialised in identifying wealthy residents for ISWAP elements to facilitate kidnapping operations for ransom.

The suspect is currently in the custody of the Headquarters Sector 3 Military Intelligence Brigade for further investigation and other necessary actions.

Military sources said the arrest was part of ongoing intelligence-driven operations aimed at dismantling terrorist support networks and disrupting the activities of informants providing critical information to insurgent groups in the North-East.

They added that although the general security situation across the theatre remains relatively calm, it is still unpredictable, with troops maintaining a high level of operational readiness and sustained offensive pressure against terrorist elements.

Troops, CJTF Arrest Suspected ISWAP Informant Accused of Identifying Kidnap Targets in Borno

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FG Moves to Stem Human Trafficking, Irregular Migration as Over 1,000 Nigerians Return from Crisis Routes

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July 8, 2026

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FG Moves to Stem Human Trafficking, Irregular Migration as Over 1,000 Nigerians Return from Crisis Routes

By: Michael Mike

The Federal Government on Tuesday unveiled a renewed strategy to curb irregular migration and dismantle human trafficking networks, warning that worsening economic hardship and the growing use of digital platforms by traffickers are exposing more Nigerians, particularly women and young people, to exploitation across Africa, the Middle East and Europe.

The renewed commitment came as the government and its international partners marked the fifth anniversary of the Comprehensive Protection, Reintegration and Assistance to Migrants and Communities (COMPASS) Programme, revealing that more than 1,000 stranded Nigerians have voluntarily returned from countries including Libya, Lebanon, Morocco, Mali, Egypt, India and the United Arab Emirates, while over 900 vulnerable returnees have received psychosocial care, healthcare and livelihood support to rebuild their lives.

Stakeholders warned that trafficking syndicates are becoming increasingly sophisticated, exploiting technology, poverty and unemployment to lure desperate Nigerians into dangerous migration routes where many end up trapped in forced labour, sexual exploitation and other forms of abuse.

Speaking at the anniversary event, the Chief of Mission of the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) in Nigeria, Sharon Dimanche, said migration itself was not the problem but the absence of safe and legal pathways.

She said: “Migration is not the problem. The challenge is ensuring that migration is safe, orderly and regular, while protecting the dignity of every migrant.”

Dimanche said the COMPASS Programme had significantly strengthened Nigeria’s migration governance architecture by improving policies and institutional coordination while placing the protection of migrants at the centre of migration management.

Highlighting the programme’s impact, she recounted the story of “Joy”, a Nigerian woman trafficked abroad and subjected to severe exploitation before returning home traumatised.

According to her, through IOM’s psychosocial support and reintegration programme, Joy rebuilt her life, established a fashion business and now employs several young women.

“Joy is no longer defined by what happened to her. She is defined by what she has become,” Dimanche said, describing the story as evidence that effective reintegration can transform survivors into productive members of society.

The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Bernard Doro. reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting returning migrants, refugees, internally displaced persons and vulnerable communities.

He said the government’s “One Humanitarian, One Poverty Reduction” framework under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda was designed to integrate humanitarian assistance with long-term poverty reduction.

“Migration, when properly managed, presents opportunities for national development. We will continue to strengthen institutions, expand livelihood opportunities and ensure that returning migrants are empowered to rebuild their lives with dignity.”

The Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, who was represented at the event, by the Director and Special Adviser Administration, Mrs. Erimfolami Ola, warned that women and children continue to bear the greatest burden of irregular migration and human trafficking.

According to her representative, the ministry has worked closely with partners under the COMPASS Programme to facilitate the voluntary return of over 1,000 stranded Nigerians while strengthening institutional responses to trafficking and forced displacement.

She stressed that interventions in Edo State had demonstrated that addressing poverty and unemployment significantly reduces the factors driving irregular migration.

Representing the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, represented by the the Head of Youth Migration and Climate Action Resilience, pecial Adviser (Administration), Adedoyin Oyekan, said creating sustainable opportunities for young Nigerians remains one of the most effective responses to irregular migration.

The ministry pledged to deepen collaboration with IOM and development partners in expanding entrepreneurship, skills acquisition, innovation and employment programmes aimed at discouraging dangerous migration.

Also speaking, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Nigeria, Bengt van Loosdrecht, announced plans for a football-based youth initiative that would equip young Nigerians with coaching and life skills while educating communities about the dangers of irregular migration.

He said the programme would empower participants to become community ambassadors for safe migration.

According to the ambassador, “Migration is fundamentally a human issue. Through COMPASS, we are investing not only in stronger institutions but also in protecting people, supporting survivors and preventing others from falling into the hands of traffickers.”

Van Loosdrecht explained that the Netherlands established the COMPASS Programme to consolidate migration support into a coordinated framework capable of providing survivor care, mental health services, institutional strengthening and protection for vulnerable migrants.

Also addressing the gathering, the Director-General of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Binta Bello, described the COMPASS Programme as one of Nigeria’s most strategic partnerships in the fight against human trafficking.

She said the initiative had strengthened the agency’s capacity to investigate and prosecute trafficking cases through specialised training for investigators and prosecutors while improving support for victims.

Warning that trafficking networks continue to evolve, Bello said: “Traffickers are adapting to technology, exploiting economic hardship and taking advantage of the aspirations of vulnerable young Nigerians. We must therefore strengthen partnerships among government, international organisations, civil society and communities to stay ahead of these criminal networks.”

The renewed commitment comes amid persistent concerns over the thousands of Nigerians who, in recent years, have embarked on perilous journeys across the Sahara Desert and the Mediterranean Sea in search of better economic opportunities. Many have perished, while others have been rescued from detention camps, trafficking rings and exploitative labour conditions abroad.

Stakeholders at the event agreed that while stronger law enforcement remains essential, tackling poverty, unemployment and social vulnerability is critical to addressing the root causes of irregular migration and sustaining Nigeria’s fight against human trafficking.

FG Moves to Stem Human Trafficking, Irregular Migration as Over 1,000 Nigerians Return from Crisis Routes

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