The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has announced plans to hold a two-day National Security Summit in Abuja aimed at strengthening collaboration between the media and security agencies in addressing Nigeria’s security challenges.
According to a statement issued by the Chairman of the Organising Committee, Comrade Abimbola Oyetunde, the summit will take place on June 18 and 19, 2026, under the theme, ”Media and Security Agencies as Partners in Nation Building.”
The organisers said the summit is designed to provide a high-level platform for dialogue on how journalists and security agencies can work more effectively together in safeguarding the country, managing information during crises, and strengthening public confidence in national institutions.
The event is expected to attract senior government officials, heads of security agencies, media executives, editors, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders from across the country.
The statement disclosed that the Chief of Defence Staff, Christopher Musa, and the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, will serve as Special Guests of Honour.
Also expected at the summit is the Director-General of the Department of State Services, Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi, who will deliver the keynote address. The National President of the NUJ, Alhassan Yahya, will host the gathering, while the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, is expected to chair the occasion.
Organisers noted that the summit comes at a period when Nigeria continues to confront complex security challenges, misinformation, disinformation, and growing public concern over national security issues.
They emphasized that structured engagement between journalists and security agencies is essential to improving crisis communication, preventing panic, combating fake news, and ensuring citizens receive accurate and timely information.
Key issues scheduled for discussion include responsible reporting of security operations and conflicts, access to credible information and official briefings, protection of journalists covering security beats, management of sensitive information, countering propaganda and hate speech, and building trust between media professionals and security personnel.
The summit will feature keynote presentations, panel discussions, breakout sessions, experience-sharing by frontline reporters, and interactive engagements with security chiefs.
At the conclusion of the event, participants are expected to adopt a communiqué and framework for future cooperation between media organisations and security institutions.
The NUJ reaffirmed its commitment to press freedom, professional ethics, and the welfare of journalists, while stressing the importance of constructive engagement with security agencies in promoting peace, national unity, and democratic governance.
