The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has intensified its advocacy for a stronger partnership between the media and security agencies as it prepares to host a two day National Security Summit in Abuja on June 18 and 19, 2026.
With the theme, “Media and Security Agencies as Partners in Nation Building,” the summit is expected to bring together top government officials, security chiefs, media executives, civil society actors and other stakeholders to explore ways of improving cooperation in addressing Nigeria’s security challenges.
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According to a statement jointly signed by the Chairman of the Organising Committee, Dr. Abimbola Oyetunde, and the Secretary, Comrade Dr Abu Nmodu, the summit is designed to create a platform for constructive dialogue on crisis communication, information management, and public trust building in times of insecurity.
The union noted that the growing threats posed by insecurity, misinformation and public anxiety make closer engagement between journalists and security agencies imperative. It argued that effective collaboration would help promote responsible reporting, improve access to credible information, counter fake news, and enhance public confidence in national institutions.
The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, and the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, are expected as Special Guests of Honour, while the Director General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi, will deliver the keynote address. The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, will chair the event, while the NUJ National President, Comrade Alhassan Yahya, will serve as host.
Deliberations at the summit will focus on responsible reporting of security operations, protection of journalists covering conflict zones, access to official information, management of sensitive security related information, and strategies for combating disinformation, propaganda and hate speech.
The summit is expected to culminate in the adoption of a communiqué and framework for sustained engagement between the media and security institutions.
Reaffirming its commitment to press freedom and professional ethics, the NUJ President Comrade Alhassan Yahya stressed that while the media must continue to hold power accountable, it also has a vital role to play in supporting national cohesion, democratic governance and efforts aimed at safeguarding lives and property.
