AWCN HOSTS SIXTH EDITION OF NIGERIAN CIVIL WAR SYMPOSIUM

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Pan Afric Reporters Abuja

…Obasanjo, COAS, Scholars Revisit History to Reinforce National Unity

The Army War College Nigeria (AWCN) on Wednesday, 4 June 2025, hosted the Sixth Edition of its Annual Nigerian Civil War Symposium at the Tukur Yusuf Buratai Auditorium in Asokoro, Abuja. Themed “The Role of Disinformation in the Nigerian Civil War,” the symposium provided a strategic forum for reflection on the past conflict and drew connections to contemporary security challenges.

The event was graced by former President and elder statesman, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo GCFR, who served as the Special Guest of Honour (SGOH). In his keynote address, Chief Obasanjo emphasized the importance of history in national development and security architecture. He described disinformation as a powerful tool used during the Civil War and cautioned that similar tactics are now being used by insurgent groups in asymmetric conflicts across Nigeria.

READ ALSO: Kama Dclared Winner Of Ohanivo APC Primaries, Asures Of More Democracy Dividends Alex Odeh Member representing Ohaozara, Onicha and Ivo(Ohanivo)¹Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Nkemkanma Kama, has emerged as the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the forthcoming general election, pledging to deliver more democratic dividends to his constituents. Speaking shortly after his victory at the party primaries, Kama expressed excitement and gratitude to party stakeholders, supporters and the state leadership for giving him another opportunity to serve. “I’m elated and very happy for being given another opportunity to serve my people. I’m grateful to all the stakeholders, our leaders, our constituents and most importantly our governor who stood by us throughout the process. Above all, I thank God for giving us this opportunity to serve again.” The lawmaker described the turnout and mobilisation witnessed during the primaries as only a glimpse of what to expect during the general elections. “This is nothing compared to what will happen during the general election,” Kama stated confidently. “This is just a piece of cake for what is going to happen during the election proper.” Kama assured constituents that his second term would usher in greater development and more opportunities for the constituency. According to him, his return to the National Assembly would strengthen the constituency’s chances of attracting more federal projects and benefits, especially as a ranking member of the House. “More development and more ability to attract goodies to our constituency is what our people should expect,” he said. “We have only done one budget, and now we are preparing for the second budget cycle. We’ll revisit communities we promised projects and ensure we fulfil those promises before moving forward.” He added that retaining experienced lawmakers was crucial to securing greater influence and benefits for the constituency. “A ranking member is a ranking member; you can’t buy that in the market,” he noted. “I believe our governor, being a former parliamentarian, understands the importance of having ranking lawmakers who can attract more development to the constituency.” Also speaking after the primaries, Ebonyi State Commissioner for ICT, Tochukwu Okorie, said the massive turnout and patience of party supporters reflected the confidence of the people in the APC. “I align myself with the feelings of my people.When you look at the crowd and the fact that they have waited here since morning, it shows they are happy and satisfied with the party.”, he said. Reacting to questions about possible opposition challenges ahead of the general election, the commissioner dismissed fears, insisting the APC remained firmly rooted among the people. The APC primaries in the Ohanivo Federal Constituency recorded a large turnout of party faithful and supporters, setting the stage for what promises to be a keenly contested general election

“By understanding the past, we can better navigate the present and build a more equitable future,” he said, encouraging participants of the AWCN Course 9/2025 to draw deeply from the lessons being discussed.

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt Gen OO Oluyede, who was represented at the event by Major General PE Eromosele, delivered the closing remarks. He commended the AWCN for organizing the symposium and described it as a vital platform for nurturing intellectual capacity within the military. He 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 AWCN, Major General UM Alkali, welcomed guests and participants, stressing the importance of the symposium in enhancing the intellectual and leadership capacity of officers undergoing the AWCN Course 9/2025.

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General 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. He emphasized that the theme aligns with the Chief of Army Staff’s Command Philosophy aimed at building a combat-ready and professional force capable of delivering on its constitutional responsibilities within a joint environment.

“This symposium allows us to analyze 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,” the Commandant stated.

The guest lecturer, Professor CBN Ogbogbo, a renowned historian, according to a press release e-signed by the College Public Relations Officer, HASHIMU SA’AD ABDULLAHI delivered an in-depth lecture on the theme of the symposium. He dissected the role of propaganda, media manipulation, and false narratives during the conflict, illustrating how misinformation shaped public perception and policy decisions during the war.

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The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by the Deputy Commandant and Director of Studies, Brigadier General OI Odigie, who expressed gratitude to all guests, participants, and contributors. He particularly thanked Chief Obasanjo, the Chief of Army Staff Lt Gen OO Oluyede (ably represented), and Professor Ogbogbo for their invaluable insights.

Highlights of the event included the presentation of souvenirs to the SGOH, and other dignitaries, as well as a group photograph. The symposium stands as a cornerstone of AWCN’s commitment to developing intellectually grounded, operationally capable, and strategically conscious military leaders, in line with the transformation agenda of the Nigerian Army.