New Military Spokesperson Commits to Countering Terrorist Propaganda and Improving Accurate Reporting

Nigeria’s New Defence Spokesman Vows to Combat Misinformation, Uphold Transparency

Brigadier General Samaila Mohammed Uba has officially assumed office as Nigeria’s new Director of Defence Information (DDI) during a brief but formal handover ceremony held Tuesday at Defence Headquarters in Abuja.

In his inaugural address, General Uba pledged to aggressively counter terrorist propaganda and misinformation campaigns, emphasizing his commitment to maintaining truth and transparency in military communications. He succeeds Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, who completed his tenure as the Nigerian Armed Forces’ principal spokesperson.

“Presently, we operate in a landscape where misinformation can erode trust in seconds,” Uba stated, acknowledging the evolving challenges in Nigeria’s security information space. “Adversaries exploit vulnerabilities in our information ecosystem, seeking to divide us. Let me be clear: we will not cede ground.”

The new defence spokesman outlined four strategic priorities that will guide his leadership: unity of purpose, timeliness and transparency, digital innovation, and effective media relations. His approach signals a potential shift in how the Nigerian military communicates about ongoing security operations, particularly in regions affected by insurgency.

Describing himself as “the historian of the Nigerian Armed Forces,” Uba emphasized his responsibility to ensure that “the sacrifices of military heroes are recorded truthfully, celebrated proudly, and remembered eternally.” This statement comes at a critical time when Nigeria’s military continues to combat multiple security threats across the country, including Boko Haram insurgency in the Northeast and banditry in the Northwest.

In addressing modern communication challenges, Uba announced plans to implement “rigorous fact-checking, public education campaigns, and partnerships with the media and cybersecurity experts” to strengthen Nigeria’s defence information architecture. He further committed to leveraging cutting-edge technology, including data analytics and multimedia storytelling, to engage younger audiences and global stakeholders.

“Our digital footprint must mirror the agility and precision of our Armed Forces,” he added, signaling an intention to modernize the military’s public communication strategies.

The outgoing director, Brigadier General Gusau, used his valedictory remarks to appeal to Nigerian media to extend the same cooperation they showed during his tenure to his successor. He emphasized that collaboration between the military and media remains essential for accurate reporting on national defence matters.

“Together, we can ensure that the narrative of Nigeria’s defence sector reflects its sacrifices and triumphs,” Gusau said.

In a parallel development, the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA) also witnessed a leadership transition. Mrs. Mernan Femi Oluyede, wife of the current Chief of Defence Staff, assumed the presidency of the organization, pledging comprehensive support initiatives for widows and orphans of fallen military personnel.

During her inaugural address at the DEPOWA Secretariat in Abuja, Mrs. Oluyede outlined priorities including family welfare, women’s empowerment, entrepreneurship, and digital capacity-building. She also promised enhanced psychosocial and mental health support for members and expanded medical outreach programs across military barracks throughout Nigeria.

“As officers and personnel dedicate their lives to securing the nation, we must stand as the shield behind the shield — protecting and strengthening the families who defend the nation,” she stated.

The outgoing DEPOWA president, Mrs. Oghogho Musa, highlighted the establishment of DEPOWA College as one of her administration’s most significant achievements, describing it as a legacy project designed to equip military children with education and leadership skills.

These leadership changes come as Nigeria continues to face complex security challenges requiring both effective military operations and strategic communication to maintain public confidence and counter extremist narratives.