The Department of Civil-Military Affairs, Nigerian Army Headquarters, has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening military-civilian relations through digital literacy and grassroots engagement. This was demonstrated during the 44th edition of the Nigerian Army Social Media Seminar and the Key Stakeholders Engagement Forum held on 15th and 16th October 2025 at The Place Event Centre, Owerri, Imo State.

In his welcome address, the Chief of Civil-Military Affairs, Major General Gold Chibuisi, emphasized that the seminar was designed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills needed to use social media responsibly in promoting peace, unity, and national security. He commended the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, for his strategic leadership and continuous support to the Department.

The Special Guest of Honour, Major General Obinna Ajunwa, Commander, Armoured Corps, praised the Department’s consistent efforts in advancing non-kinetic operations and fostering mutual understanding between the Nigerian Army and civilians. He encouraged participants to use the platform to enhance trust, cooperation, and information sharing between the military and the public.

The seminar, themed “Promoting a Culture of Security Awareness Through the Responsible Use of Social Media,” featured a lecture by Professor Ehiz Odige Okpataku on “Positive Advocacy through Social Media for Enhanced National Security.” Participants also enjoyed interactive sessions and presentations by Nollywood stars Mrs. Joyce Kalu and Mr. Dike Osinachi (Apama), who shared insights on how social media can be a tool for national development and responsible citizenship.

A highlight of the seminar was a competition focused on the Nigerian Army’s social media handles across Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter). Winners received prizes for their creativity and contributions. There were also detailed presentations on the Army’s civil-military cooperation initiatives and other security-related efforts.

The following day, the Department held a Key Stakeholders Engagement Forum themed “Taking the Nigerian Army to Communities.” The forum aimed to build stronger collaboration with community leaders, traditional rulers, union representatives, and other stakeholders to collectively tackle insecurity. A lecture on “Security Challenges and Community-Driven Solutions” was delivered by Brigadier General Godwin Ayanmelechi (Rtd.), followed by a panel discussion featuring religious leaders, security chiefs, and traditional rulers who exchanged ideas on enhancing local security networks.

Both events were graced by key dignitaries including the General Officer Commanding 82 Division and Commander Joint Task Force South East (Operation UDOKA), Major General Oluyemi Olatoye, the Deputy Chief of Civil-Military Affairs (Psychological Operations), Major General Mike Onoja, as well as representatives from the Nigerian Navy, Air Force, Police, and other security agencies.

Also in attendance were royal fathers, clerics, community leaders, members of the Christian Association of Nigeria (Imo State Chapter), government officials, trade union executives, youth leaders, women groups, professional bodies, persons with disabilities, civil society organizations, and members of the National Youth Service Corps.

The two-day engagement reinforced the Nigerian Army’s resolve to promote public trust, information sharing, and community participation in safeguarding the nation.