By Sharon Akuboh, Abuja, Nigeria –
All is Set as the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) will convene a two-day National Security Summit in Abuja from Thursday, June 18 to Friday, June 19, 2026, aimed at strengthening collaboration between the media and security agencies in the interest of national stability, peace, and development.
The summit, themed “Media and Security Agencies as Partners in Nation Building,” is designed as a high-level platform for constructive dialogue on the critical role of journalists and security operatives in safeguarding the nation, managing information during crises, and enhancing public trust in national institutions.
In a statement signed by the Chairman of the Organising Committee, Comrade Abimbola Oyetunde, the summit is expected to bring together senior government officials, heads of security agencies, media executives, editors, civil society organisations, and other key stakeholders from across the country.
According to the statement, the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, and the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, will attend as Special Guests of Honour.
The Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Mr. Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi, will deliver the keynote address, while the National President of the NUJ, Comrade Alhassan Yahya, will serve as host of the summit. The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, will chair the event.
The organisers noted that the summit comes at a critical period when Nigeria continues to face complex security challenges, rising cases of misinformation and disinformation, and growing public anxiety over security-related issues.
“The union believes that structured engagement between the media and security agencies is essential to improving crisis communication, preventing panic, countering fake news, and ensuring that citizens receive accurate, timely, and responsible information,” the statement said.
Over the two-day summit, participants will deliberate on key issues including:
Responsible reporting of security operations and conflicts;
Access to credible information and official briefings;
Managing sensitive information without compromising security operations;
Protection and safety of journalists covering security assignments;
Countering disinformation, propaganda, and hate speech; and
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 engagements with security chiefs.
The summit will conclude with the adoption of a communiqué and a framework for sustained collaboration between the media and security institutions.
The NUJ reaffirmed its commitment to defending press freedom, promoting ethical journalism, and advancing the welfare and safety of media professionals across Nigeria.
The union further emphasized that while the media must continue to hold power accountable, it also has a responsibility to work constructively with security agencies in protecting lives, preserving national unity, and supporting democratic governance.
As the umbrella body for practising journalists in Nigeria, the Nigeria Union of Journalists remains committed to championing policies and programmes that promote professional excellence and contribute to peace, security, and national development.
This was contained in a statement jointly signed by Comrade Abimbola Oyetunde
Chairman, Organising Committee and
Comrade Abu Nmodu, Secretary, Organising Committee.