Information Warfare Now Central to Military Success, Says Olukolade
Former Director of Defence Information, Major General Chris Olukolade (retd), has identified information operations as a decisive battlefield in modern warfare, stressing that the control of narratives is now as critical as conventional combat.
Olukolade made the assertion while speaking as Special Guest of Honour at the graduation ceremony of the First Quarter 2026 courses of the Nigerian Army School of Public Relations and Information (NASPRI), held at the Lt Gen Taoreed Lagbaja Auditorium, Muhammadu Buhari Cantonment, Abuja.
He noted that contemporary warfare has evolved beyond traditional domains of land, sea and air, with the information environment emerging as a powerful force capable of shaping outcomes even before physical engagements occur.
“Today, narratives travel faster than bullets, while images influence public perception more rapidly than conventional military operations,” he said.
The retired general emphasized the need for the Nigerian Army and the broader Armed Forces of Nigeria to build a cadre of skilled and ethically grounded public relations professionals. According to him, such personnel are essential for managing information, projecting accurate narratives and safeguarding the integrity of military operations in a digitally interconnected world.
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Olukolade commended the Strategic Communication Course offered at NASPRI, noting that it has equipped participants with the knowledge and practical skills required to design and implement effective communication strategies. He added that these competencies align with the command philosophy of the Chief of Army Staff aimed at transforming the army into a professional, adaptable and combat-ready force.
He further highlighted the importance of strategic communication in enhancing transparency, building public trust, countering misinformation and strengthening civil-military relations. He urged the graduating participants to apply their knowledge responsibly in support of their respective commands.
Addressing trainees of the A1 Photography and A3 Video Operations courses, Olukolade underscored the power of visual storytelling, describing photography as a tool capable of documenting sacrifice, resilience and professionalism. He encouraged participants to use their craft as instruments of truth, accountability and historical record.
In his remarks, the Acting Commandant of NASPRI, Lt Col Shuaib Umar, praised the graduands for their discipline and strong performance throughout the training. He also acknowledged the support of the army leadership, noting that it has repositioned the institution as a leading hub for military public relations training in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Earlier, the Acting Chief Instructor, Maj Nureni Alimi, presented a course appraisal, commending participants for their adherence to standard procedures, active engagement in training and outstanding academic and practical performance.
The ceremony also featured the commissioning of a newly constructed NASPRI photo stand, described by Olukolade as a legacy project that will enhance the school’s training capacity for future generations.
Other highlights included the presentation of certificates, awards to outstanding participants and group photographs, marking the successful completion of the courses and reinforcing the Nigerian Army’s commitment to professionalism in information management.
By PRNigeria
