The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has announced plans to convene a National Security Summit aimed at strengthening collaboration between the media and security agencies in addressing the nation’s security challenges.
Speaking at a press conference ahead of the summit, NUJ President, Alhassan Yahya, said the event would be held under the theme, “Media and Security Agencies as Partners in Nation Building.”
Yahya explained that the decision to organize the summit was informed by the growing recognition that national security is a collective responsibility requiring the commitment and cooperation of all stakeholders.
According to him, both the media and security institutions occupy strategic positions in shaping public discourse, promoting peace, and strengthening national unity, making collaboration between the two sectors essential for national development.
The NUJ President noted that as the watchdog of society, the media has a constitutional duty to inform, educate, and hold public authorities accountable, while security agencies are responsible for protecting lives, maintaining peace, and safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty.
He emphasized that the relationship between journalists and security agencies must be anchored on mutual respect, professionalism, trust, and a shared commitment to the common good.
Yahya disclosed that the summit would bring together media practitioners, security experts, government officials, and other stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue on emerging security issues and practical ways to enhance cooperation.
He said discussions would focus on responsible security reporting, combating misinformation and disinformation, improving access to credible information, protecting national interests, and upholding press freedom.
The NUJ President stressed that a well-informed society is a safer society, adding that journalists must continue to report security-related matters with accuracy, balance, and sensitivity.
He also urged security agencies to recognize the media as a critical partner in democratic governance and national development rather than viewing journalists as adversaries.
Yahya clarified that the summit was not designed to compromise media independence or interfere with the operational responsibilities of security institutions.
Rather, he said, the gathering would seek to deepen understanding, encourage dialogue, and establish a framework for cooperation that would ultimately benefit Nigerians.
The NUJ President expressed appreciation to security institutions, government agencies, development partners, and members of the media community for supporting the initiative.
He called on all participants to approach the summit with open minds and a shared commitment to building a peaceful, secure, and prosperous Nigeria.
Yahya further urged journalists and media organizations across the country to support the initiative by creating awareness and ensuring that the objectives of the summit receive widespread public attention.
He reaffirmed the NUJ’s commitment to promoting journalism that strengthens democracy, fosters national unity, and contributes meaningfully to nation-building.
