Deborah Akinyosoye
Former President, Olusegun Obasanjo has said disinformation played a significant role in the Nigerian Civil War (1967 to 1970). Obasanjo stated this at the sixth edition of the Annual Nigerian Civil War Symposium organised by the Army War College Nigeria (AWCN), yesterday, in Abuja.
He said the theme of the symposium, “The Role of Disinformation in the Nigerian Civil War”, was germane, especially in this era of asymmetric warfare.
According to him, disinformation, propaganda, psychological warfare and propagation of false narratives are means through which a weaker force attempts to discredit a superior force in asymmetric wars.
“The same strategy is currently being employed by the insurgents in the North-East and other violent groups in other parts of Nigeria.
“In line with the theme, the symposium will therefore highlight the importance of media and information operations in conflict resolution and nation-building,” he said.
The former President emphasised the need for Nigeria to be deliberate and diligent in the study of history, particularly military history, to bring out and apply valuable lessons.
He quoted a popular saying that “a child that does not learn history will be told history”, adding that understanding the past would help to better navigate the present and build a more equitable future for all Nigerians.
Obasanjo commended AWCN for the inclusion of the study of the Nigerian Civil War in its curriculum to enhance the capacities of operational-level leaders to effectively apply the lessons from past campaigns in operational planning.
“This fratricidal conflict left an indelible mark on our nation’s collective memory and continues to shape our identity.
“The war’s complex causes, consequences and lessons offer valuable insights for us all,” he added. The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt-Gen Olufemi Oluyede, who was represented by Maj.-Gen. P.E. Eromosele, described the symposium as a vital platform for nurturing intellectual capacity within the military.
Oluyede praised the theme’s relevance to current operations and reiterated the army’s commitment to building a combat-ready force guided by sound leadership and informed strategy.
Earlier, the Commandant of AWCN, Maj.-Gen. Umar Alkali, said the symposium was designed to enhance the intellectual and leadership capacity of officers undergoing the AWCN Course 9/2025.
Alkali said the college deliberately included the study of the Civil War in its curriculum to help participants dissect and draw practical lessons from historical campaigns.