Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has underscored the pivotal role disinformation played during the Nigerian Civil War (1967–1970), asserting that it significantly exacerbated tensions and swayed public opinion. He made these remarks at the Sixth Edition of the Annual Nigerian Civil War Symposium held by the Army War College Nigeria (AWCN) in Abuja on Wednesday.
Obasanjo emphasized that the symposium’s theme, “The Role of Disinformation in the Nigerian Civil War,” is especially relevant today amid asymmetric warfare challenges. He explained that disinformation, propaganda, psychological warfare, and false narratives are tactics weaker forces use to undermine stronger opponents in such conflicts.
“Disinformation played a significant role in the Nigerian Civil War, exacerbating tensions and influencing public opinion,” Obasanjo said. He further noted that insurgents in Nigeria’s Northeast and other violent groups continue to employ similar strategies. The symposium aims to highlight the critical role of media and information operations in conflict resolution and nation-building.
The former president stressed the importance of deliberate study of history, particularly military history, to extract and apply lessons that can guide Nigeria’s present and future. Quoting the adage, “a child that does not learn history will be told history,” Obasanjo urged Nigerians to understand their past to build a more equitable future.
He praised AWCN for incorporating the Nigerian Civil War study into its curriculum to strengthen operational leaders’ capacity to apply historical lessons in planning. “This fratricidal conflict left an indelible mark on our nation’s collective memory and continues to shape our identity,” Obasanjo reflected. “The war’s complex causes, consequences, and lessons offer valuable insights for us all.”
Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, Chief of Army Staff, represented by Major General P.E. Eromosele, described the symposium as vital for nurturing intellectual capacity within the military. Oluyede commended the theme’s relevance to current military operations and reaffirmed the army’s commitment to building a combat-ready force guided by sound leadership and strategy.
Earlier, AWCN Commandant Major General Umar Alkali explained that the event was designed to enhance the intellectual and leadership skills of officers in Course 9/2025. He stressed that analyzing past military operations at strategic, operational, and tactical levels equips officers to manage today’s information battles effectively.
Guest lecturer Professor Christopher Ogbogbo, Vice Chancellor of Admiralty University, dissected how propaganda, media manipulation, and false narratives shaped public perception and policy decisions during the civil war, further illustrating disinformation’s powerful impact.
This symposium serves as a crucial platform for reflecting on Nigeria’s painful history and drawing lessons to strengthen national unity and security.
