CDS Calls on Journalists to Fight AI Fake News

The Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Oluyede, has called on defence reporters to work with the armed forces to fight AI-made fake videos and false information that could harm national security.

Mr Oluyede, an army general, made this call in his goodwill message at the Defence Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DECAN) Conference 2026 on Monday in Abuja.

The conference theme is: “Beyond Kinetic Warfare: Harnessing Technology and Intelligence-led Operations for Nigeria’s National Security.”

The CDS, who was represented by the Director Defence Information, Sumaila Musa, said the theme is fitting. He explained it shows how warfare is changing and the path the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) is taking.

“Today, battles are not just won with firepower. They are won with better information, real-time intelligence, technology, cyber resilience, and the ability to manage the narrative,” he said.

“From space-based surveillance and geospatial intelligence to Artificial Intelligence-enabled decision support and joint intelligence fusion, the Armed Forces of Nigeria is investing in non-kinetic capabilities. This helps us stay ahead of enemies, protect citizens, and secure our national interests,” he added.

Mr Oluyede explained this understanding drives the recent activities at the Defence Space Administration. This includes expanding modular earth observation outposts, creating the Defence Space School for skill development, and integrating AI and advanced surveillance systems into operations.

He said the AFN is building a force that is not just ready for combat but also driven by intelligence and enabled by technology.

However, the CDS expressed worry about the misuse of technology. He pointed to the rise of AI-generated fake videos, altered images, cloned voices, and false claims that mislead the public.

He said such content is spread intentionally to create fear, damage the reputation of troops, and weaken national security efforts.

“These deepfakes are not just misinformation; they are tools of psychological warfare aimed at destroying public trust in the Armed Forces. They also threaten the essential relationship between the military and citizens.

“In today’s information age, security operations happen not just on the battlefield but also in the world of information.

“A single AI-made video can erase months of progress, put troops at risk, and cause panic in communities. This is a shared threat to our national security,” he said.

Mr Oluyede described DECAN as an important partner in this fight. He said they serve as gatekeepers, fact-checkers, and bridge-builders.

He urged the association to prioritize truth as a national security issue. He asked them to verify information with Defence Headquarters before publishing sensitive operational details.

The CDS also encouraged DECAN to work with the military to expose fake AI messages. He suggested they use their platforms to educate the public on how to identify fake media and quickly debunk false videos that claim to be from the Armed Forces.

He further urged the reporters to promote intelligence-led journalism. This should go beyond catchy headlines to include informed reporting that boosts trust between civilians and the military and counters extremist propaganda.

“The Armed Forces of Nigeria is committed to defending Nigeria’s sovereignty and democracy. But we cannot do this alone.

“The trust, cooperation, and relationship between the military and the public, supported by a responsible press, are vital,” he said.

Mr Oluyede praised DECAN for maintaining professionalism, patriotism, and partnership in defence reporting. He assured the association of the Defence Headquarters’ continued support and open-door policy for sharing timely and accurate information.