By Femi Anamelechi
As part of efforts geared towards proffering solutions to the National Security Challenges in Nigeria, Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has concluded plans for a two-day National Security Summit in Abuja from June 18 to 19 2026 .The two day National Security Summit is aimed at deepening collaboration between the media and security agencies as critical partners in providing effective national security, stability, and development in Nigeria.The National Security Summit summit comes at a critical time following the increasing security threats in the country.The theme “Media and Security Agencies as Partners in Nation Building,” was carefully chosen to highlight key security challenges and will bring together key stakeholders in the Country to deliberate on strategies for strengthening collaboration between the journalists and security institutions in supporting national development.This was discussed In a statement jointly signed by the Chairman and Secretary of the Organising Committee, Comrade Abimbola Oyetunde, and Comrade Abu Nmodu respectively. According to the NUJ I rganizing Comitte the two day National Security Summit will feature strategic discussions on how journalists and security Operatives can team up to effectively safeguard the country, manage information during crises, with view on strengthening public confidence in national institutions.Among Security experts and leading media professionals expected at the occasion are top officials from government agencies, heads of security agencies, media leaders, editors, civil society organisations and other critical stakeholders across Nigeria.
The event will be chaired by the Honourable Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris with the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, and the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, attending as Special Guests of Honour.The statement also pointed out that the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi, will deliver the keynote address, while the National President of the NUJ, Comrade Alhassan Yahya, plays the role of Chief Host.“The Security Summit is coming at a time when the country continues to grapple with complex security challenges, the spread of misinformation, and heightened public anxiety.“The union noted that a structured engagement between the media and security agencies is critical to improving crisis communication, preventing panic, countering fake news, and ensuring that citizens receive accurate, timely and responsible information,” the statement partly reads.The two-day summit will feature deliberations on key issues like;• Responsible reporting of security operations and conflicts• Managing sensitive information without compromising operations• Protection and safety of journalists covering security beats• Countering disinformation, propaganda and hate speech• Building mutual trust and respect between journalists and security personnelThe organisers also stated that the programme will include opening remarks and goodwill messages, a keynote presentation, panel discussions, breakout sessions, experience-sharing by frontline reporters, and interactive question-and-answer segments with security chiefs.The summit will conclude with the adoption of a communiqué and an agreed framework of action to guide future engagement between the media and security institutions.
The Union reiterates its commitment to defending press freedom, upholding professional ethics, and promoting the safety and welfare of journalists.It also emphasises that the media, while holding power to account, must work constructively with security agencies to protect lives, preserve national cohesion and support democratic governance. NUJ as the umbrella body for all practising journalists in Nigeria remains dedicated to championing policies and programmes that promote professional excellence and contribute to peace, security and national development .
