Effective information management is essential for public governance as it serves as a critical bridge between the government and the populace in a participatory democracy. Speaking as a guest on Lagos Television’s The Conversation, journalist and social commentator Taiwo Olapade defined information management in public governance as the strategic gathering of data and the clear dissemination of government policies and programs through proper communication channels. He emphasized that under Section 22 of the 1999 Constitution, the primary duty of government centers on the security and welfare of citizens, a mandate that relies heavily on transparent, symbiotic communication between the leaders and the governed.
Olapade highlighted that public authorities must proactively showcase their scorecards and ongoing developments through terrestrial and digital media rather than creating dangerous information vacuums. Citing commendable efforts by state agencies like the Lagos State Public Works Corporation and the Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), he argued that when government bodies fail to highlight their achievements, they invite widespread public skepticism. He noted that an age-long trust deficit continues to plague governance at all levels, making it imperative for public information managers to constantly engage citizens and dispel misgivings.
Addressing the rise of misinformation, the social commentator cautioned that failing to communicate effectively creates a room for speculation, propaganda, and fake news to thrive. Olapade lamented the unregulated state of the social media space and recalled past legislative efforts, such as those by former Information Minister Alhaji Lai Mohammed, to regulate digital platforms—initiatives that faced heavy public resistance due to deep-seated suspicions of media gagging. He stressed that to prevent external actors from controlling the narrative, public officials must transition from reactive debunking to proactive, timely communication.
Turning his focus to grassroots administration, Olapade urged local government councils—the closest tier of government to the people—to step up, ensure transparency, and account for their monthly allocations. He stated that if local chairmen and state governors judiciously utilize their funds and communicate their progress, it will significantly alleviate the pressure often placed solely on the central government. Concluding the session, he called on citizens to exercise their rights under the Freedom of Information Act by actively questioning local leadership, emphasizing that true democratic governance requires continuous participation from both the government and the public.
