The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has warned Nigerians against spreading misinformation and propaganda that could worsen insecurity and trigger attacks on innocent citizens. This warning was given by the Commandant of the NSCDC Federal Capital Territory Command, Dr. Olusola Odumosu, during a nationwide roadshow organised by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations in Abuja. The event was held ahead of the 2026 World Public Relations Forum.
According to Dr. Odumosu, the spread of unverified information, particularly on social media, could create panic, heat the polity, and encourage criminal activities such as banditry and kidnapping. He stated that some individuals share old videos or information that may be out of context, which can lead to chaos and attacks on innocent citizens. This, he emphasized, can be prevented if people verify information before sharing it.
Dr. Odumosu urged Nigerians, particularly young people who are active on social media, to communicate responsibly and avoid content capable of provoking violence, banditry, and kidnapping. He stressed that it is essential to learn to communicate responsibly, especially in this age of social media, to prevent the spread of misinformation and its negative consequences.
The chairman of the National Planning Committee for the World Public Relations Forum, Dr. Suleiman Haruna, also called for greater responsibility in the use of social media, particularly with the growing influence of artificial intelligence. He stated that the forum's theme, "Responsible Communications: Voice of the World," was designed to address growing concerns over information integrity and the misuse of communication platforms.
The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) is hosting the World Public Relations Forum, which is expected to attract about 3,000 delegates from 126 member countries of the Global Alliance. The event is being organised in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation and the NIPR. The forum is seen as an opportunity for Nigeria to reshape its image before the international community.
The President of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, has committed to attending and supporting the event, while the World Bank, United Nations, and World Customs Organisation are also expected to participate. The Presidency had assured the organisers of its support for the event, with the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, giving the assurance when he received members of the WPRF Abuja 2026 Planning Committee at the State House.
The NIPR chairman, Stanley Ogadigo, described Nigeria's hosting of the forum as a major reputation-building opportunity for the country. He urged Nigerians and corporate organisations to support the event, saying it would provide an opportunity to redefine Nigeria's image before the global community. With the right support, the event is expected to be a success and promote responsible communication in Nigeria.
Key points
- The NSCDC warns Nigerians against spreading misinformation and propaganda that could worsen insecurity.
- The World Public Relations Forum is expected to attract 3,000 delegates from 126 countries.
- The event aims to promote responsible communication and address growing concerns over information integrity.
