Ishaq Dan-Imam, Lokoja
The Nigerian Army on Thursday, conferred a merit award on a disability activist and social media influencer in Kogi State, Hon. Ibrahim Daniel Arome, for cultivating a positive culture of security awareness through social media, as the Nigerian Army said Daniel Arome, had exhibited responsible online conduct that promotes national security.
Speaking at the 38th Edition of the Nigerian Army Social Media Seminar organized by the army to honour youths in Kogi State for responsible online conduct about security awareness creation, themed: “Cultivating a Culture of Security Awareness Through Social Media,” the Chief of Civil-Military Affairs (CCMA), Nigerian Army, Major General Nosakhare C. Ugbo, and the Special guest of honour at the seminar, Maj. Gen. Adeleke A. Ayannuga implored the youth to use social media responsibly to promote peace and national security, towards enhancing Nigeria’s unity and progress.
According to General Ugbo, the Nigeria Army social media seminar, is aimed at the promotion of responsible online conduct that enhances national security, whereby citizens’ education reduces potential security threats and risks through responsible digital engagements.
General Ugbo, represented by Brig. Gen. Bola S. Keji, Director of Psychological Operations, Department of Civil Military Affairs, Army Headquarters, stressed the need for citizens to work together to promote a safer and informed online community.
“We must recognize that our words and actions echo far beyond our tablets, computers, and other smart devices. Each post, share, and comment, can either support or hinder our collective efforts for a united Nigeria.
“We must use this power responsibly, ensuring our digital footprints contribute to a legacy of peace and prosperity.
“Let us embark on this enlightened journey together, where our united voices will amplify the core values of our culture and our commitment to security,” Ugbo said.
The awardee, Daniel Arome, said the recognition rekindled his hope for a greater Nigeria, where security is everyone’s business as Nigeria grapples with national security challenges.
“This award has indeed re-keyed my security conscience with a renewed spirit of security advocacy online and, I will do more in creating security awareness and of course, do other things with social media as an influencer.
“As we collectively work towards a secured Nation of our pride, I want to reaffirm the fact that Disability is just an impairment, not a barrier and that was why I came up with the SLOGAN in 2014 that, ‘BRAIN NOT LEGS.’
My divine call is to ensure a better life for all persons with disabilities as much as God gives me grace. I do this with a passion beyond politics. Disability matters are beyond politics.
As the Army says, everyone is important in society when it comes to security awareness creation, and that consciousness spurred me to create the necessary awareness for persons with disabilities in society as such, security awareness cannot be overlooked even on social media.
On his part, General Ayannuga, Commander Nigerian Army Cyber Warfare Command, commended the participants for their presence, describing it as a testament to their determination to be part of the online behavioural change for improved national security.
According to him, the NA introduced the seminar as an essential platform aimed at empowering Nigerian youths with the requisite knowledge about non-kinetic initiatives designed to enhance national security.
“This seminar seeks to equip the talented young minds of Kogi State with the critical information necessary to foster a safe and secure society.
“It also serves as a vital feedback mechanism, to refine our operations and improve service delivery to our communities,” Ayonuga said.
He expressed optimism that the seminar outcomes would broaden their understanding and also contribute significantly to the security and economic development of Kogi State and the North-Central Region.
The state Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Ododo, applauded the Nigerian Army for organizing the seminar at a time when the nation faces dynamic and evolving security challenges.
“As we gather here today, we must acknowledge the ever-growing role social media plays in shaping perceptions, guiding public discourse, and driving action on important issues like national security.
“Security awareness is a collective responsibility, one that requires constant engagement, education, and collaboration across all sectors of society.
“Our approach to building this awareness must adapt to the times, utilizing the platforms and methods that resonate with today’s generation – social media being at the forefront of these tools,” Ododo said.
“Collaboration between the Nigerian Army, state governments, civil society organizations, and the private sector is key to ensuring that social media remains a space for positive engagement and growth.
“Together, we can harness the power of social media to build a more secure and united Nigeria”.
In her presentation titled: “Harnessing Social Media Impact for Improved National Security,” a Resource person, Dr. Ehiz Odegie, urged participants to support the NA in their efforts to keep the country safe.
Odegie, who is the Executive Director of Steady Hope Support Initiative, stressed the need for social media users to influence deliberately for good and promote security.
According to her, estimated statistics for data-reported as of January 2024, shows that Nigeria has 36.75 million active social media users which is an estimated 45.5 percent of the total population.
Some of the participants, Godblessing Osita, and Joy Tabitha described the seminar as the first of its kind in the state, adding that they were better equipped with social media dynamics that enhance national security, in Nigeria.
