**Propaganda in Modern Warfare: Insights from WITNESS Associate Director** In today's digital age, propaganda has evolved significantly, becoming a crucial tool in modern warfare. Mahsa Alimardani, an associate director at WITNESS, a global human rights organization, recently shared her expertise with France 24. Unfortunately, due to technical issues, the video is not available. However, we can summarize her key points and provide context relevant to Nigerian readers. According to Alimardani, propaganda has become more sophisticated, leveraging social media and online platforms to disseminate information. In recent conflicts, such as the Ukraine-Russia war, propaganda has been used to shape public opinion, manipulate emotions, and influence decision-making. This is not dissimilar from the tactics employed by Boko Haram in Nigeria, where the group uses social media and local networks to spread its ideology and recruit new members. One of the key challenges in addressing propaganda is its ability to blur the lines between fact and fiction. Alimardani notes that propaganda often relies on emotional appeals rather than factual evidence, making it difficult to distinguish between reality and manipulation. This is a challenge faced by many Nigerians, particularly those who have been affected by the spread of misinformation on social media platforms. Another significant aspect of modern propaganda is its use of personal stories and narratives. Alimardani explains that propagandists often use emotional, relatable stories to create a sense of empathy and connection with their audience. This tactic has been employed by various groups, including terrorist organizations, to recruit new members and justify their actions. In the context of Nigeria, this tactic has been used by groups like Boko Haram to justify their attacks and recruit new members. For instance, the group often releases videos showing its fighters as heroic figures, fighting against an oppressive government. These narratives are often laced with emotional appeals, making them more believable and persuasive to some audience members. To combat propaganda, Alimardani emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and media literacy. She suggests that individuals need to be able to critically evaluate information, identify biases and propaganda tactics, and seek out multiple sources before forming an opinion. In Nigeria, this is particularly relevant, given the spread of misinformation on social media platforms and the need for citizens to be informed and engaged in the democratic process. In conclusion, propaganda remains a significant challenge in modern warfare, leveraging social media and online platforms to shape public opinion and manipulate emotions. As Nigerians navigate the complexities of the digital age, it is essential to develop critical thinking skills and media literacy to effectively combat propaganda and promote informed decision-making.