A former military leader, Maj. General Umelo in a recent lecture says Information management is not just a matter of organizational efficiency but also a vital component of national security and development.

Maj Gen. Umelo said this in a one day media chat organized in Enugu on the theme Military and Media Relationship: A Panacea for Enhanced National Security and Development.

In a thought-provoking lecture where he explored the critical role of information management in national security and development, Umelo highlighted the importance of strategic information management to address security threats, support economic growth, and ensure a stable and prosperous society.

He stressed that managing information effectively is not just a matter of efficiency, but also a vital component of safeguarding national security and promoting development.

The former military leader emphasized the need for careful and strategic management of information to address security issues, support economic progress, and ensure a stable and prosperous future for our society.

“Effective Information Management is a potent vital element in enhancing National development. We can manage information effectively in ways like enabling collective action and early warning mechanism.

For the media to minimize the spread of mis Information, it should endeavour to apply systematic collection as well as security and dissemination of information without compromise to national security.”

He continued “the media serves as a critical link between the military and the public, so ensure you package accurate and balanced report without compromising issues of security concern. When in doubt, the media should strive to get cleared before dishing out information. end of quote.

He identified understanding each other’s strength and weakness, building trust and convenience as some of the ways through which we can build on peace and effective security in Nigeria.

Maj. General Umelo (rtd) also advocated for a culture of collaboration and truthfulness among relevant agencies in a bid to protect and secure information from unauthorized persons.

A special guest of honour and Managing Director of the Guardian Newspaper, Toke Ibru noted “We are not unmindful that within the ranks of the media are people and even organizations with parochial agenda, who seek to achieve their aim unmindful of national security.

Interactions like this foster transparency understanding and trust.as our dear country navigate a plethora of diverse security threat across the country
Information is a powerful double edge tool for tackling security matters.

According to him “the issue of effective information management underscores the importance of responsible and ethical journalism, particularly in the context of reporting on sensitive security matters”.

Mr Ibru noted that interactions such as those between the military leaders and the media can help to foster a climate of transparency, understanding, and trust, which are essential for addressing the diverse security threats facing our country

In a keynote address, the GOC commanding Nigerian Army 82 Division Enugu, Major General Hassan Taiwo Dada said the theme of the quarterly workshop highlights the indispensable role of the media on security matters through their reportage.

“Establishing regular contributory channels  in reporting activities on national security matters is key. The Nigerian Army is intensifying operations to beef up security of lives and properties in the country.”

The GOC emphasised that to maintain responsible, balanced reporting that will uphold the rights of Nigerians, the military deserves respect and support from the public.

He therefore encouraged the media to remain steadfast and keep supporting the Nigerian Army.

He encouraged the people to take charge of their communities.

In an interactive session, members of the panel including the General Manager Radio Nigeria Unity FM Abakalaik, Dr McSylvester Ndolo, the Zonal Director NTA Enugu Zonal office, Lady Nwadi Elobuike, Dr Maxwell Menkiti Ngene and An Associate professor in Mass Communication department, Caritas University Enugu encouraged the media to remain fair, factual and accurate in their reportage.

Highlight of the event was presentation of souvenirs to invited guests among whom are the Zonal Director FRCN Enugu National station, Mr, Ikechukwu Eze.