Countering propaganda: How Nigeria should respond to Tchiani’s allegations

BY OLU ALLEN

In today’s world, wars are fought not just on battlefields but in the minds of the people. Propaganda has become a powerful weapon, shaping perceptions, dividing societies, and destabilising nations. President Tchiani of Niger has unleashed a calculated propaganda campaign against Nigeria, speaking directly to its people in a way that exploits cultural and emotional vulnerabilities.

But for every attack, there’s a counter. To win this battle, Nigeria must rise above reactive responses and adopt a proactive strategy that combines narrative control, psychological finesse, and diplomatic precision.

Propaganda isn’t random; it is crafted to exploit identity, emotions, and existing grievances. Tchiani’s recent interview in Hausa reveals three key strategies:

1. Weaponising language: By addressing Nigeriens in Hausa, Tchiani wasn’t just speaking—he was aligning himself with Northern Nigerians, subtly positioning himself as their champion. This calculated move aims to drive a wedge between the North and Nigeria’s leadership.

2. Direct accusations: Tchiani accused Nigerian leaders of colluding with France to fund terrorism, naming specific figures. Such bold claims aim to incite outrage and frame the government as puppets of foreign powers.

3. Psychological warfare: This type of warfare seeks to:
– Divide: Exploit ethnic and regional differences.
– Distract: Shift focus from Niger’s struggles to alleged Nigerian misdeeds.
– Delegitimise: Undermine Nigeria’s regional leadership and internal unity.

Nigeria’s path to victory

The government must take the offensive in this narrative war by using modern tools of influence and diplomacy.

Seize the narrative, speak in their language: Just as Tchiani used Hausa, so must Nigeria. Address Northern Nigerians directly in Hausa, not just to refute his claims but to demonstrate understanding and solidarity.

Reframe the story: Shift the focus to Niger’s internal failures and Nigeria’s efforts to promote peace. Highlight Niger’s instability under Tchiani’s leadership without resorting to outright condemnation.

Empower trusted messengers: Northern leaders, clerics, and influencers are key allies. Their voices carry weight, and their support can dismantle Tchiani’s narrative far more effectively than official government statements.

Expose the lies, fact-check publicly: Investigate Tchiani’s claims and present evidence to the contrary. Transparency builds credibility, especially if investigations reveal his accusations to be baseless.

Subtly undermine him: Highlight inconsistencies in his statements and his regime’s failures. Position him as a leader using Nigeria as a scapegoat for his shortcomings.

Deploy impactful messaging: Use short, impactful messages in Hausa and English that debunk Tchiani’s claims. Share stories of Northern Nigerians benefitting from government initiatives, turning the narrative back in Nigeria’s favour.

Leverage media: Use radio and TV stations in the North to air culturally resonant programs showcasing Nigeria’s unity and strength. Personal stories of progress and resilience can be powerful tools.

Strategic diplomacy

A nuanced approach is required, such as recalling Nigeria’s ambassador to Niger to signal a firm yet calculated response. Mobilise ECOWAS and the African Union to issue strong statements condemning propaganda that threatens regional stability. Quietly open diplomatic channels to address underlying tensions while maintaining Nigeria’s regional leadership.

Winning hearts and minds

Propaganda is emotional warfare. To counter it, Nigeria must appeal to the hearts of its people:

Celebrate northern contributions: Remind Nigerians of the North’s vital role in the country’s history and development. Stories of Northern heroes and innovators can inspire pride and unity.

Engage with the people: Host town halls, radio Q&A sessions, and social media interactions where leaders listen to concerns and address them transparently.

The best response to propaganda isn’t loud or reactive—it’s calm, calculated, and effective. By projecting confidence and taking meaningful actions, Nigeria can disarm Tchiani’s accusations without appearing defensive.

This isn’t just about refuting falsehoods. It’s about reinforcing trust, strengthening unity, and showing the world that Nigeria remains a beacon of stability and strength in West Africa.

As the great strategist Sun Tzu wrote, “In the midst of chaos, there is also opportunity.” Tchiani’s propaganda campaign is an opportunity for Nigeria to showcase its resilience and leadership on a global stage.

Olu Allen can be contacted via [email protected]