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By Lizzy Chirkpi
Former President of Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo has claimed that disinformation played a crucial role in the Nigerian Civil War (1967-1970).
He stated that 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.
Obasanjo made the assertion at the Sixth Edition of Annual Nigerian Civil War Symposium organised by the Army War College Nigeria (AWCN) on Wednesday in Abuja.
He said going by the theme of the symposium, which is “The Role of Disinformation in the Nigerian Civil War” could be linked to tension and influence by the aforementioned factors.
“Disinformation played a significant role in the Nigerian Civil War, exacerbating tensions and influencing public opinion.
“The same strategy is currently being employed by the insurgents in the northeast 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 reiterated the need for Nigeria to be deliberate and diligent in the study of history, particularly military history, to bring out and apply valuable lessons, adding that understanding the past would help to better navigate the present and build a more equitable future for all Nigerians.
President 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.
Speaking, the representative of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Maj.-Gen. PE Eromosele said the symposium was a vital platform for nurturing intellectual capacity within the military.
He further reiterated the army’s commitment to building a combat-ready force guided by sound leadership and an informed strategy to match up the current realities.
On his part, 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 hailed the college for deliberately including the study of the civil war in its curriculum to help participants dissect and draw practical lessons from historical campaigns.
He pointed that the theme aligned with the Chief of Army Staff’s Command Philosophy ‘to build a combat-ready and professional force capable of delivering on its constitutional responsibilities within a joint environment’.
“This symposium allows us to analyse past military operations at strategic, operational, and tactical levels.
“By understanding how disinformation shaped the Nigerian Civil War, we are better equipped to manage the information space in today’s battles,” he said.