The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) will on June 18 and 19, 2026 convene a two-day National Security Summit in Abuja, the nation’s capital.
This is to deepen collaboration between the media and security agencies in the interest of national stability and development.
The summit has the theme: “Media and Security Agencies as Partners in Nation Building.”
A statement signed by the Chairman of the Organising Committee of the Summit, Comrade Abimbola Oyetunde, it is conceived as a high-level platform for robust dialogue on how journalists and security operatives can work together more effectively in safeguarding the country, managing information during crises, and strengthening public confidence in national institutions.
It will bring together senior government officials, heads of security agencies, media leaders, editors, civil society organisations, and other critical stakeholders from across Nigeria.
According to the statement, the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, and National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, will serve as Special Guests of Honour at the summit.
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, will host the gathering, Oyetunde added.
She said the Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, will chair the summit, adding: “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.
Over the two days, participants will interrogate key issues such as:
• Responsible reporting of security operations and conflicts
• Access to credible information and official briefings
• 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 personnel.
The programme will feature opening 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 close with the adoption of a communiqué and an agreed framework of action to guide future engagement between the media and security institutions.
The NUJ reiterated its commitment to defending press freedom, upholding professional ethics, and promoting the safety and welfare of journalists.
It also emphasised that the media, while holding power to account, must work constructively with security agencies to protect lives, preserve national cohesion, and support democratic governance.
The NUJ remains the umbrella body for all practising journalists in Nigeria and continues to champion policies and programmes that enhance professional excellence and contribute to peace, security, and national development.
More details here...
