NUJ to Hold Two-Day National Security Summit in Abuja

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has concluded plans for a two-day National Security Summit in Abuja on June 18 and 19 2026, aimed at deepening collaboration between the media and security agencies as critical partners in fostering national security, stability, and development.

The high level summit, themed “Media and Security Agencies as Partners in Nation Building,” will bring together key stakeholders in the Country to deliberate on strategies for strengthening collaboration between the journalists and security institutions in supporting national development.

In a statement jointly signed by the Chairman and Secretary of the Organising Committee, Comrade Abimbola Oyetunde, and Comrade Abu Nmodu respectively, the Summit will feature robust dialogue on how journalists and security operatives will team up to effectively safeguard the country, manage information during crises, and strengthen public confidence in national institutions.

Expected guests at the occasion include, top officials from government agencies, heads of security agencies, media leaders, editors, civil society organisations and other critical stakeholders across Nigeria.

The event will be chaired by the Honourable Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris with the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, and the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, attending as Special Guests of Honour.

According to the statement, 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, plays the role of a Chief Host.

“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,” the statement partly reads.

The two-day summit will feature deliberations on the following key issues:

• 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

Additionally, the organisers also stated that the programme will include opening remarks 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 conclude with the adoption of a communiqué and an agreed framework of action to guide future engagement between the media and security institutions.

The Union reiterated its commitment to defending press freedom, upholding professional ethics, and promoting the safety and welfare of journalists.

It also emphasises that the media, while holding power to account, must work constructively with security agencies to protect lives, preserve national cohesion and support democratic governance.

As the umbrella body for all practising journalists in Nigeria, the NUJ remains dedicated to championing policies and programmes that promote professional excellence and contribute to peace, security and national development.