Abuja: Former President Goodluck Jonathan has emphasised that effective information management relies on partnerships among governments, the media, security agencies, civil society, and the diplomatic community.
Jonathan made this call on Wednesday during the 2nd Diplomatic/Security, Trade and Investment International Conference, organised by the Diplomatic Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DICAN) and held in Abuja.
The conference has the theme: “Information warfare: Strengthening global security, trade and investment through collaborative truth: The role of diplomacy, intelligence and media.”
Jonathan, represented by Ms Ann Iyonu, Executive Director of Goodluck Jonathan Foundation, disclosed during the conferment of a leadership award by DICAN.
According to him, democracies worldwide are increasingly confronted by threats of misinformation, disinformation, and extremist propaganda, urging stronger collaboration among stakeholders to advance media literacy and resist conflict.
Jonathan said, “I commend DICAN for creating this platform. It brings together stakeholders in diplomacy, security, intelligence, trade, investment, and the media to discuss solutions to today’s global challenges.
“Conversations like this are necessary if we are to build safer societies, strengthen democratic governance and create an environment where economic growth and investment can thrive.
“I dedicate this honour to all Nigerians, Africans and partners across the world, who continue to work tirelessly for peace, democracy and regional integration.
“May we all continue to work together in promoting truth, strengthening democracy and advancing peace, security and development across our continent and beyond.”
Amb. Dunoma Ahmed, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, commended diplomatic correspondents for shaping public understanding of foreign policy and international affairs.
Ahmed inaugurated the Nigeria Fact Check and Information Integrity Network, Truth Matters, Build Stronger, Safer Society and Think Before You Share: A Moment of Thought Can Prevent Harm platforms to promote credible information.
According to him, the media remains a critical partner in advancing constructive dialogue, mutual understanding and informed discourse among nations.
“Diplomatic journalism serves not only as a bridge between governments and citizens, but also as a catalyst for transparency, accountability and international cooperation,” Ahmed said.
The Chairman of DICAN, Idehai Frederick, said that the conference was driven by the need to confront Foreign Information Manipulation and Interference (FIMI) at its critical tipping point.
“We remain optimistic that development partners, embassies, international organisations, and democratic institutions will partner with DICAN to strengthen this important national and continental initiative for peace, security, and credible information management,” Frederick said.
The conference was organised by DICAN in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Centre for Communication Development and Diplomacy in Africa (CCDDA), and PR Nigeria.
Dignitaries at the event include Mr Zissimos Vergos, Charge d’Affaires of the EU, Zhou Hongyou, the Minister of the Embassy of China, and Nonye Ayeni, Executive Director/CEO, Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC).
