The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa,has emphasized the crucial role of psychological operations in addressing Nigeria’s complex security challenges, stating that contemporary threats demand more than just kinetic responses. He made the assertion at the opening of the maiden Defence Headquarters Workshop on Psychological Operations held from 13–15 May 2025 in Abuja.
Themed “Defence Headquarters Influence Operations: Optimizing Psychological Operations for Efficiency in a Joint Environment,” the workshop brought together security personnel, communication experts, and strategic partners to deepen understanding and collaboration on influence operations in modern warfare.
General Musa noted that psychological operations have become essential in shaping perceptions, building resilience, and maintaining public trust in the face of asymmetric threats such as terrorism, banditry, and insurgency.
“Today’s battles are no longer fought with weapons alone; they are waged on the mental and emotional fronts, where perceptions, attitudes, and beliefs determine outcomes,” the CDS stated.
“While our gallant troops continue to disrupt and degrade the enemy’s capabilities, we must equally invest in shaping public perception. Psychological operations are central to achieving these goals,” he added.
He reiterated his leadership vision for a people-centric and collaborative Armed Forces, and expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his unwavering support to the military.
Also speaking at the event, the Director-General of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), Dr Mohammed Bulama, described the workshop as a timely intervention in Nigeria’s national security discourse. He stressed that psychological operations must be rooted in effective communication and the ethical use of the media to counter disinformation and extremist narratives.
“Information warfare is real and ongoing. Terrorists and hostile actors exploit the media space with precision. We must counter these threats with credible narratives, proactive communication, and a unified national messaging strategy,” Dr Bulama stated.
The FRCN DG called for stronger collaboration between the military and the media, especially public broadcasters, in amplifying messages that promote national unity, civic resilience, and trust in the Armed Forces.
The workshop featured expert sessions on influence operations, strategic communications, behavioural insights, and media partnerships, with participants drawn from the military, academia, media, and civil society.
In his closing remarks, General Musa commended all stakeholders for their participation and reaffirmed the Armed Forces’ commitment to adopting innovative, people-driven, and coordinated strategies in safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty.
