NUJ to host national security summit in Abuja on media–security collaboration

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has announced plans to convene a two-day National Security Summit in Abuja on June 18 and 19, 2026, aimed at strengthening collaboration between the media and security agencies in addressing Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.

According to a statement signed by the Chairman of the Organising Committee, Comrade Abimbola Oyetunde, the summit is themed “Media and Security Agencies as Partners in Nation Building.”

The event is expected to provide a high-level platform for dialogue on improving crisis communication, enhancing information management during security operations, and building public trust in national institutions.

The summit will bring together senior government officials, heads of security agencies, media executives, editors, civil society organisations and other key stakeholders across the country.

Among top dignitaries expected at the event are the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, and the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, who will serve as Special Guests of Honour.

The Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi, is billed to deliver the keynote address, while the Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, will chair the occasion. The NUJ National President, Comrade Alhassan Yahya, will host the summit.

The organisers said the summit has become necessary due to Nigeria’s persistent security challenges, rising misinformation, and growing public anxiety, stressing the need for structured engagement between journalists and security agencies.

Over the two-day programme, participants will deliberate on key issues including responsible reporting of security operations, access to credible information, protection of journalists, and strategies for countering disinformation, propaganda and hate speech.

Other focus areas include improving trust between journalists and security operatives, and balancing national security concerns with press freedom and transparency.

The summit will feature keynote presentations, panel discussions, breakout sessions, and interactive engagements with security chiefs, as well as experience-sharing sessions by frontline reporters.

It is expected to culminate in the adoption of a communiqué and an action framework to guide future cooperation between the media and security institutions.

The NUJ reaffirmed its commitment to press freedom, ethical journalism, and the safety of journalists, while stressing the importance of constructive engagement with security agencies in the interest of national stability and democratic governance.