The Nigeria Union of Journalists will hold a two-day National Security Summit on Thursday, June 18 and Friday, June 19, 2026, in Abuja to strengthen partnership between media organizations and security agencies for national stability and development.
The summit carries the theme Media and Security Agencies as Partners in Nation Building.
Comrade Abimbola Oyetunde, Chairman of the Organizing Committee, stated in a press release that the Security Summit serves as a high-level platform for substantive dialogue on how journalists and security operatives can collaborate more effectively in protecting the country, managing crisis information, and building public confidence in national institutions. The event will attract senior government officials, security agency heads, media leaders, editors, civil society representatives, and other key stakeholders from across Nigeria.
The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, and National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, will attend as Special Guests of Honour.
Director-General of the Department of State Services, Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi, will deliver the keynote address, while NUJ National President Comrade Alhassan Yahya will host the gathering. The Honourable Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, will chair the occasion.
Oyetunde noted that the Security Summit takes place as the country continues facing complex security challenges, misinformation spread, and increased public anxiety.
The union emphasizes that structured engagement between media and security agencies is essential for improving crisis communication, preventing panic, countering fake news, and ensuring citizens receive accurate, timely, and responsible information.
During the two days, participants will examine key issues including 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, and building mutual trust and respect between journalists and security personnel.
The programme includes opening and goodwill messages, 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 adoption of a communiqué and agreed framework of action guiding future engagement between media and security institutions.
The NUJ reaffirms its commitment to defending press freedom, upholding professional ethics, and promoting journalist safety and welfare.
The union also emphasizes that while media holds power to account, it must work constructively with security agencies to protect lives, preserve national cohesion, and support democratic governance.
The Nigeria Union of Journalists remains the umbrella body for all practising journalists in Nigeria and continues championing policies and programmes enhancing professional excellence while contributing to peace, security, and national development.