The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) is set to convene a two-day National Security Summit in Abuja on Thursday, 18, and Friday, 19 June 2026, aimed at strengthening collaboration between the media and security agencies in the interest of national stability and development.
The summit, themed “Media and Security Agencies as Partners in Nation Building”, will provide a high-level platform for dialogue on how journalists and security operatives can work more effectively to safeguard the country, manage information during crises, and enhance public confidence in national institutions.
In a statement signed by the Chairman of the Organising Committee, Comrade Abimbola Oyetunde, the summit is expected to attract senior government officials, heads of security agencies, media executives, editors, civil society organisations and other key stakeholders from across Nigeria.
According to the statement, the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, and the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, will serve as Special Guests of Honour at the event.
It stated that 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, will host the summit. The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, will chair the occasion.
The NUJ said the summit is coming at a critical time when Nigeria is grappling with complex security challenges, the spread of misinformation, and rising public anxiety.
It noted 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.
Over the two days, participants will deliberate on issues including responsible reporting of security operations and conflicts; access to credible information and official briefings; handling sensitive information without compromising operations; protection and safety of journalists on security beats; countering disinformation, propaganda and hate speech; and building mutual trust 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 question-and-answer sessions with security chiefs.
The summit is expected to end with the adoption of a communiqué and a 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, and promoting the safety and welfare of journalists.
It also emphasised that while the media has a duty to hold power to account, it must continue to work constructively with security agencies to protect lives, preserve national cohesion, and support democratic governance.
The Nigeria Union of Journalists, the umbrella body for practising journalists in Nigeria, said it remains committed to policies and programmes that promote professional excellence and contribute to peace, security and national development.
