The National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, has emphasized the growing importance of social media as a priority and issue of national security and the president Bola Tinubu administration.
Ribadu made this statement during a meeting with spokespersons of organizations under the umbrella of the Strategic Communication Interagency Policy Committee in Abuja.
According to the NSA, the negative use of social media constitutes both local and global threats to national security. Ribadu disclosed that the National Security Strategy (NSS) was last reviewed in 2015, and the 2019 version is now under review.
Ribadu directed media managers in the defense, security, and response agencies to change their approach to engaging with the public and countering disinformation from enemies of the country. He also called for the adoption of a plan of action to engage Nigerians, build trust, and counter violent extremism.
The NSA charged the spokespersons to synergize and coordinate efforts to deny media space to terror groups and criminal elements, such as Boko Haram and armed bandits, who seek to stifle citizens’ freedom to life, dignity, and security. He also emphasized the importance of telling the stories and singing the praises of service personnel as part of a broader national strategic communication program.
Ribadu promised to ensure that government communication aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s vision and directives, and the messages are well-coordinated and in line with national security objectives and values. He stressed the urgency of preparing and being proactive in national security strategic communication management, as the spokespersons have a critical role to play.
