The Nigerian Army has issued a stern public warning regarding a surge in fraudulent social media accounts falsely claiming to represent the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu. The military high command has clarified that the Army Chief does not operate any official personal social media profiles.
Army Issues Alert on Fraudulent Impersonation
In an official statement released on Friday, 9 January 2026, the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Appolonia Anele, raised the alarm over the increasing number of fake accounts. These accounts, created in the name of Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, are being used for malicious purposes.
The statement explicitly warned members of the public to exercise extreme caution and remain vigilant. According to the Army, these impersonator accounts are often deployed to defraud unsuspecting individuals, solicit funds illegally, or spread deliberate misinformation under the guise of the Nigerian Army's authority.
The Army strongly advised citizens not to engage with, follow, or share content from any account claiming to be the personal profile of the COAS. Interacting with such platforms could expose individuals to sophisticated financial scams and other criminal activities. The military authorities confirmed that steps are already in motion to identify and prosecute those responsible for these deceptive acts.
COAS Emphasizes Discipline and Human Rights During Niger Visit
Separately, the Chief of Army Staff has reiterated the core values of the Nigerian Army during an operational visit to frontline troops. Lieutenant General Shaibu charged personnel of the 31 Brigade in Niger State to prioritize military discipline and unwavering respect for human rights in all their engagements.
He stressed that professionalism must guide every interaction, whether with adversaries or civilians, especially during counter-terrorism and internal security operations. The COAS emphasized that soldiers must uphold the fundamental human rights guaranteed under international frameworks like the United Nations Charter.
Shaibu commended the troops for their resilience and commitment in tackling severe security challenges within the brigade's area of responsibility. This region includes parts of Niger State heavily affected by banditry and terrorist activities.
Addressing Welfare and Operational Challenges
According to the statement from Colonel Apollonia Anele, the Army Chief was fully briefed on the operational and welfare challenges facing the troops. Key issues highlighted included deficiencies in accommodation and other critical facilities.
The COAS directed the immediate construction and renovation of accommodation blocks and other essential facilities to boost troop morale and operational effectiveness. He assured the soldiers that their welfare is a top priority for the Army leadership.
During the visit, Shaibu further charged the troops to remain firm, vigilant, and decisive in their operations against terrorists operating in areas like Shiroro and Rijau within the Brigade's jurisdiction.
The visit underscores the Nigerian Army's ongoing operations across Niger State and neighbouring regions, where security forces are actively combating armed groups responsible for community attacks, abductions, and other violent crimes.
The Army's statement concluded by reaffirming its constitutional commitment to protecting lives and property and safeguarding Nigeria's territorial integrity.
