The seminar, themed "Countering the Spread of Divisive Content on Social Media: A Collective Responsibility," aimed to educate both sister security agencies and the general public about the proper etiquette to be observed when using social media.
In an effort to enhance our Public Relations, Media, and Communications Department and further fortify the existing relationship between our organization and the military, Man O’ War Nigeria participated in the 29th Edition of the Social Media Influencers Seminar organized by the Nigerian Army on October 26, 2023, in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria. Representing the Head of Media and ICT AMC Sola Ajide, was ASM Samuel Olarinde, the Assistant Head of the Social Media and Content Creation unit.
The seminar, themed "Countering the Spread of Divisive Content on Social Media: A Collective Responsibility," aimed to educate both sister security agencies and the general public about the proper etiquette to be observed when using social media. It also served as a means to strengthen the Civil-Military relationship. During his speech, Maj Gen NE Angbazo, Chief of Civil Military Affairs, represented by Brig Gen BS Keji, Director PsyOps, Nigerian Army, emphasized the selectiveness of the theme as a way to reshape the public's perception of the Nigerian Army, referring to it as "our Army" rather than "the Army." He stressed the importance of bringing the military closer to civil society through programs like this to facilitate interaction, problem-sharing, and open dialogue on matters concerning the army and the public. He commended Lt Gen TA Lagbaja, Chief of Army Staff, for his proactive approach to organizing such programs.
A presentation on the Nigerian Army Civil Military Cooperation (CIMIC) activities and projects showcased developmental initiatives in both rural and urban communities, conferences organized by the Nigerian Army with the general public, and film projects like Operation Last Dance and Operation Hadin Kai, produced by the military to illustrate the valor and dedication of our soldiers to civil society.
Distinguished guests at the seminar included high-ranking military officials, Maj Gen VA Okoro, represented by Brig Gen YO Zubair, the GOC of the 2nd Division, government officials in the state, including the Commissioner for Youth Development, the SA to the Governor on Security matters, the Commissioner for Information, and heads of security agencies in the state such as the Police, Correctional Service, DSS, Immigration, and Civil Defense.
The seminar featured presentations by two resource persons, Dr. Odigie Okpataku Ehiz and Mr. Adesile Tosin Adebowale, covering topics on "Online etiquettes" and "Curbing the Spread of Fake News and Hate Speech on Social Media." The discussions highlighted the importance of verifying information before sharing it online to counteract the spread of divisive content, protect sensitive information, and prevent misinformation and conflicts within the country.
The event concluded with a group photograph to commemorate the occasion.