Nigerian Chief of Army Staff Lt General Kenneth Minimah has issued a stern warning to army officers to refrain from discussing military issues on social media.
While addressing the troops at Ibereko, Topo and Ojo Barracks in Lagos, Minimah warned the soldiers against using social media to spread false information, especially about the war against terrorism and exposing the perceived weaknesses and strength of the military.
“Another trend that is also risky to the service, which we all cherish, is the misuse of social media. I advise you to be cautious of the social media, especially those who like to use Twitter, Facebook and other social media to report the army as if you are not part of it. One thing that you are not aware of is that you have been loosening the systems that you are part of,” said Minimah.
He further stated: “You can tweet on social issues though do not tweet about our weapons, ammunition, equipment and locations. All the information passed out there affects you therefore; do not try to undo the system before enlisting. I advise you to refrain from reporting the army.”
Minimah portrayed himself as a wartime chief who will stop at nothing to stop Boko Haram’s threats. The welfare of the troops that is currently deployed in different operations has remained his top priority.
“All I know as an infantry General is to plan and fight war. By doing this, we have ensured that our troops are well taken care of. As I speak, the troops are being given their operational allowance for the month of August and that is how it has forever been.
“We paid July’s allowance in June and we also have made efforts to improve medical facilities at the 7 Division to help soldiers who are wounded while in the line of duty. For those whose cases are complicated and cannot be treated at the 7 Division, we take them to 45 Reference Hospital, Kaduna. Seven casualties, whose condition could not be treated back home are currently being handled in Germany and India and we will keep on doing our best to take care of troops, said Minimah.
