Social media being used to recruit criminals, spread falsehood - Defence Minister - Businessday NG

…Says unity, patriotism key to end insecurity

Christopher Musa, the minister for defence, has warned that social media is increasingly being weaponised to spread falsehood, recruit criminals and weaken national unity, urging Nigerians to exercise caution and verify information before sharing it.

Speaking at The Platform, a June 12 commemorative event held in Lagos on Friday, Musa said misinformation and disinformation have emerged as major threats to Nigeria’s security architecture, often amplifying fear and eroding public trust.

“We must reject misinformation, we must reject narratives that weaken our collective resolve,” the minister said. “Social media has provided the avenue to spread falsehood, recruit criminals, and distort the truth.”

Musa said while terrorism, banditry and kidnapping remain significant threats, the digital space has become another battleground where malicious actors exploit divisions and manipulate public opinion.