The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has urged Nigerians to disregard misinformation and rely on verified official communications on security matters, warning that the spread of false or unverified information could inadvertently aid terrorist groups and undermine ongoing military operations across the country.
The appeal comes amid increasing concerns over the circulation of misleading reports and manipulated content on social media, particularly regarding counter-insurgency operations in the North-East and other conflict-affected parts of the country.
In a statement, the Air Force stressed that inaccurate reports about military activities, troop movements and operational outcomes could compromise national security by providing criminal groups with intelligence capable of frustrating security efforts.
According to the NAF, terrorists and other non-state armed groups increasingly exploit misinformation and disinformation to create confusion, weaken public confidence in security institutions and spread fear among citizens. The service noted that false narratives often distort the realities of military operations, making it more difficult for the public to distinguish verified information from fabricated claims.
The Air Force therefore urged Nigerians to verify security-related information through official government channels before sharing it on social media or other communication platforms. It advised citizens to rely on statements issued by recognised security agencies and credible authorities instead of forwarding unconfirmed reports that could heighten public anxiety.
Military authorities explained that operational details are often deliberately withheld from the public for strategic reasons, including the safety of personnel, protection of intelligence sources and the success of ongoing missions. They warned that premature disclosure of sensitive information could jeopardise rescue operations, expose troops to danger and give armed groups opportunities to evade security forces.
The NAF reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Nigeria’s territorial integrity and supporting efforts to restore peace in areas affected by terrorism, banditry and other forms of violent crime. It stated that personnel remain actively engaged in coordinated operations with other branches of the Armed Forces and security agencies to combat criminal networks across the country.
The Air Force also acknowledged the important role citizens play in national security, encouraging members of the public to report suspicious activities through appropriate security channels rather than spreading speculation online. It emphasised that timely and credible information from communities often contributes significantly to successful security operations.
Security experts have echoed the warning, noting that misinformation has become a major challenge in modern conflict situations. They argue that false reports can influence public perception, create unnecessary panic and complicate emergency responses by diverting attention from verified developments.
Digital communication specialists also urged Nigerians to exercise caution before sharing images, videos or messages related to security incidents, particularly when the source cannot be independently verified. They advised social media users to check publication dates, identify original sources and avoid amplifying sensational claims that lack official confirmation.
As the fight against terrorism and other security threats continues, the Nigerian Air Force reiterated that public cooperation remains essential to achieving lasting peace. The service appealed to citizens to support national security efforts by promoting responsible information sharing, rejecting misinformation and trusting official statements issued through recognised government communication channels.
