NUJ To Host National Security Summit On Media’s Role In Nation Building

The President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Alhassan Yahya, has announced plans for a National Security Summit aimed at strengthening collaboration between the media and security agencies in addressing Nigeria’s security challenges.

Speaking at a press conference ahead of the summit, themed “Media and Security Agencies as Partners in Nation Building,” Yahya said the initiative was informed by the growing need for collective action in tackling security concerns and promoting national unity.

According to him, national security remains a shared responsibility that requires the commitment and cooperation of all stakeholders. He noted that both the media and security institutions occupy strategic positions in shaping public discourse, promoting peace, and strengthening national cohesion.

Yahya emphasized that while the media has a constitutional responsibility to inform, educate, and hold authorities accountable, security agencies play a critical role in protecting lives, maintaining peace, and safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty.

He stated that the summit would provide a platform for constructive engagement among journalists, security experts, government officials, and other stakeholders to examine emerging security challenges and identify ways to improve collaboration between the media and security agencies.

The NUJ President disclosed that discussions at the summit would focus on responsible security reporting, combating misinformation and disinformation, protecting national interests while upholding press freedom, improving access to credible information, and strengthening cooperation between journalists and security institutions.

He stressed that the NUJ believes a well-informed society is a safer society, adding that journalists must continue to report security issues with accuracy, balance, and sensitivity, while security agencies should recognize the media as a vital partner in democratic governance and national development.

According to Yahya, the summit is not intended to compromise the independence of the media or the operational responsibilities of security agencies but rather to deepen understanding, promote dialogue, and establish a framework for cooperation that benefits Nigerians.

He expressed appreciation to security institutions, government agencies, development partners, and members of the media community for supporting the initiative, describing the summit as a significant step toward fostering a peaceful, secure, and prosperous Nigeria.

The NUJ President also called on journalists and other stakeholders to support the initiative by creating awareness and ensuring that the objectives of the summit receive widespread public attention.

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The National Security Summit is expected to bring together key actors from across the country to explore practical solutions for strengthening the partnership between the media and security agencies in the interest of national development and stability.