COAS Warns 2989 Soldiers Against Social Media Misuse, Urges Professionalism and Respect for Human Rights
By Zagazola Makama
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has cautioned newly enlisted soldiers against the misuse of social media, warning that indiscriminate online activities could jeopardise military operations, undermine national security and result in dismissal from service.
Shaibu gave the warning on Wednesday during the maiden Passing-Out Parade of pioneer recruits at the Depot Nigerian Army, Amasiri, in Edda Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.
Addressing the recruits, the Army Chief said the increasing trend of personnel posting operational information, images of military activities and sensitive locations on social media posed serious risks to operational security and the integrity of the Nigerian Army.
He said the unauthorised https://newsng.ng/ of operational information, photographs of military installations and activities, as well as the circulation of unverified and misleading content, constituted grave violations of extant military regulations.
“Let me be clear: violations of the Nigerian Army Social Media Policy can and will attract disciplinary action, including dismissal from service where necessary,” he said.
According to him, such misconduct carries severe consequences for individual soldiers, the institution and the nation at large.
He explained that while erring personnel stood to lose their careers, honour and livelihood, the Nigerian Army would suffer damage to its discipline, operational security, morale and institutional credibility.
He added that the nation would equally bear the burden through the waste of substantial public resources invested in recruiting and training the affected personnel.
The COAS urged the new soldiers to exercise restraint, maturity and responsibility in their engagement with social media, stressing that discipline must extend beyond the battlefield into the digital space.
Shaibu also reminded the recruits of their obligation to conduct operations within the framework of international human rights principles and the Nigerian Army’s Rules of Engagement.
He urged them to uphold the trust reposed in them by Nigerians and remain worthy ambassadors of the service.
“Above all, uphold the trust of the Nigerian people and remain worthy ambassadors of the Nigerian Army,” he said.
The Army Chief assured the soldiers of the Federal Government’s continued commitment to improving their welfare, training and operational capabilities.
He said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remained committed to strengthening the Armed Forces through sustained investments in personnel welfare, defence infrastructure and modern military capabilities.
“The nation has invested substantial resources in your training because it believes in your ability to make a difference. You now carry the proud responsibility of defending our nation and preserving the rich traditions of the Nigerian Army,” he said.
Shaibu disclosed that the Federal Government was investing heavily in indigenous defence industries, local production and emerging technologies to reduce dependence on foreign military imports and ensure sustainable support for troops.
He stressed the need to prioritise decent accommodation, quality healthcare and comprehensive welfare packages for military personnel, noting that those who risk their lives in defence of the nation deserved the best the country could provide.
The COAS also paid tribute to parents and guardians of the graduating recruits for their sacrifices and unwavering support throughout the training period.
“You entrusted your children and wards to the Nigerian Army. You endured months of separation, anxiety and uncertainty, and today you witness with pride their transformation into disciplined soldiers.
“You have given your best to Nigeria, and the nation salutes your sacrifice. Continue to stand by them, encourage them and pray for them because military service is demanding,” he said.
Shaibu further appealed to leaders and residents of the South-East to encourage greater participation of youths from the region in military service.
He observed that recruitment quotas allocated to the South-East had consistently remained underutilised, describing the trend as a concern that required collective action.
According to him, military service is not merely a profession but a noble calling rooted in patriotism, leadership, sacrifice and national service.
“I urge community leaders, parents, guardians and elders across the South-East to encourage our young men and women to see this depot as their own institution and step forward to serve the nation,” he said.
The COAS expressed appreciation to all stakeholders whose contributions ensured the successful establishment of the Depot Nigerian Army, Amasiri, describing the occasion as a landmark in the history of the Nigerian Army and national security development.
He concluded by praying for God’s continued blessings upon the Nigerian Army, Ebonyi State and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
