The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) will convene a two-day National Security Summit in Abuja on June 18 and 19, 2026, as part of efforts to strengthen collaboration between the media and security agencies in promoting national stability, security, and development.
The summit, themed “Media and Security Agencies as Partners in Nation Building,” is expected to bring together senior government officials, heads of security agencies, media executives, editors, civil society organizations, and other key stakeholders from across the country.
According to a statement issued by the Chairman of the Organizing Committee, Comrade Abimbola Oyetunde, the summit is designed as a high-level platform for constructive dialogue on how journalists and security operatives can work more effectively together in safeguarding the nation, managing information during crises, and strengthening public confidence in national institutions.
She explained that the event seeks to foster greater understanding and cooperation between the media and security agencies at a time when Nigeria faces complex security challenges, the growing threat of misinformation, and heightened public anxiety over national security issues.
The statement disclosed that the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, and the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, will serve as Special Guests of Honour at the summit, reflecting the importance attached to the initiative by the nation’s security leadership.
It further revealed that 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 host the gathering.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, is expected to chair the occasion, which will focus on enhancing cooperation between journalists and security institutions in addressing emerging security concerns and improving public communication.
The union noted that a structured engagement between the media and security agencies has become increasingly necessary to improve crisis communication, prevent panic, counter misinformation, and ensure that citizens receive accurate, timely, and responsible information during periods of uncertainty.
Participants at the summit will deliberate on several critical issues, including responsible reporting of security operations and conflicts, access to credible information and official briefings, management of sensitive information without compromising security operations, and the protection and safety of journalists covering security-related assignments.
Other areas of discussion include strategies for combating disinformation, propaganda, and hate speech, as well as measures to build mutual trust, understanding, and respect between journalists and security personnel.
The two-day programme will feature goodwill messages, a keynote presentation, panel discussions, breakout sessions, experience-sharing by frontline reporters, and interactive question-and-answer sessions with security chiefs and other stakeholders.
The summit is expected to conclude with the adoption of a communiqué and an agreed framework of action to guide future engagement between the media and security institutions.
The NUJ reaffirmed its commitment to defending press freedom, upholding professional ethics, promoting the welfare of journalists, and supporting initiatives that contribute to peace, security, democratic governance, and national development.