Femi Olufunmilade, a professor of international relations and strategic studies has charged Nigerians to promptly report activities inimical to the peace and security of the country to the security agencies.
Olufunmilade made this known during the 25th Inaugural lecture he delivered at the Igbinedion University, Okada on Thursday, June 13, 2024.
Olufunmilade maintained that the topic of the lecture titled, “Foreign Intelligence: The Means To Advance Nigeria’s Security and Prosperity” was chosen due to its importance to the national interest and germane to public service.
“Nigeria is going through its worst experience in terms of national security and economic prosperity since Independence,” he said.
Olufunmilade however warned that dire consequences await the nation if the security management is left in the hands of security practitioners alone.
The lecture, apart from primarily centered on the crucial role of intelligence in national development, also focused on intellectual gatherings and prroviding actionable insights into leveraging intelligence for national security and economic growth
In an insightful and thought-provoking presentation, Olufunmilade, who is the Director of Buratai Center for Contemporary Security Affairs at Igbinedion University, while delivering a paper, titled “Foreign Intelligence: The Means To Advance Nigeria’s Security and Prosperity, explored the intersection of divine omniscience and human intelligence efforts, drawing on historical and contemporary examples to highlight their significance in national security.
Prof. Olufunmilade began his lecture by contemplating the existence of a supreme God, asserting that the belief in God’s omniscience forms the foundation of intelligence studies.
He cited biblical references, including Luke 2:7 and Psalm 139:1-16, to illustrate God’s comprehensive knowledge and management of the universe. This divine coordination, he argued, is evident in the natural world’s complexity and stability, from celestial bodies to the containment of oceans.
Drawing parallels between divine and human intelligence, Prof. Olufunmilade suggested that nations’ intelligence efforts aim to emulate God’s omniscience. He highlighted the United States’ Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) as an example, emphasising that extensive intelligence collection confers significant power and global preeminence.
He traced the roots of intelligence back to biblical times, citing Moses’ use of spies in Canaan and Sun Tzu’s “The Art of War,” demonstrating the historical importance of espionage in military strategy.
Transitioning to modern intelligence collection, Prof. Olufunmilade discussed its comprehensive nature, from threat assessment to understanding foreign leaders’ intentions. He referenced the controversial revelations by Edward Snowden to illustrate the ethical and diplomatic challenges inherent in contemporary intelligence practices.
A significant portion of the lecture focused on differentiating between Foreign Intelligence (FORINT) and Local Intelligence (LOCINT).
In Nigeria, the State Security Service (SSS) handles LOCINT, while the National Intelligence Agency (NIA) is responsible for FORINT. Prof. Olufunmilade highlighted the legal and clandestine nature of FORINT operations, noting the severe consequences for operatives if caught.
The scholar emphasised the critical role of intelligence in national security and international relations, underscoring its strategic advantages in anticipating threats and informing policy decisions.
He concluded by addressing the ethical and legal complexities of intelligence operations, calling for a balanced approach that respects international law while ensuring global stability and security.
The 25th Inaugural Lecture at Igbinedion University not only provided a comprehensive overview of intelligence studies but also highlighted the enduring significance and challenges of intelligence in the modern world.
Prof. Olufunmilade’s insightful discourse offered a unique perspective on contemporary practices of intelligence, contributing to a deeper understanding of its role in national security.
The event which was chaired by the university’s vice chancellor, Prof. Ikechukwu Ezemonye had in attendance the institution’s management team, scholars, policymakers, and students.
Notable guests at the occasion were the presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party in the 2023 general elections, Prince Adewole Adebayo, former minister for youth and sports, Solomon Dalung, and Senator Ugochukwu Uba, among others.
Mrs Dolapo Olufunmilade, the wife of the speaker, and children, Itunu and Damilola and other family members were also in attendance.
