NUJ Sets Stage for Landmark Media-Security Summit in Abuja

Abuja, Nigeria — The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) will convene a two-day National Security Summit in Abuja on Thursday, June 18 and Friday, June 19, 2026, as part of efforts to strengthen 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 how journalists and security operatives can work together more effectively in safeguarding the nation, managing information during crises, and strengthening public confidence in national institutions.

In a statement signed by the Chairman of the Organising Committee, Comrade Abimbola Oyetunde, the summit will bring together senior government officials, heads of security agencies, media executives, editors, civil society organisations, and other critical stakeholders from across Nigeria.

According to the statement, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, will serve 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 host the gathering.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, will chair the occasion.

“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 statement noted.

The union stressed that 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 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 beats

Countering disinformation, propaganda, and hate speech

Building mutual trust and respect between journalists and security personnel

The programme will feature opening remarks, goodwill messages, a keynote presentation, panel discussions, breakout sessions, experience-sharing by frontline reporters, and interactive question-and-answer sessions with security chiefs.

The summit will conclude with the adoption of a communiqué and an agreed framework for sustained engagement between the media and security institutions.

The NUJ reaffirmed its commitment to defending press freedom, upholding professional ethics, and promoting the safety and welfare of journalists across the country.

The union also emphasized that while the media has a constitutional responsibility to hold power accountable, it must equally work constructively with security agencies to protect lives, preserve national cohesion, and strengthen 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.