NUJ Holds National Security Summit Thursday
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) is convening a National Security Summit on Thursday, 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, the President of the NUJ, Comrade Alhassan Yahya, said the event, themed “Media and Security Agencies as Partners in Nation Building,” was conceived in recognition of the critical roles both institutions play in promoting peace, national cohesion, and sustainable development.
According to Yahya, national security remains a collective responsibility that requires the active participation and cooperation of all stakeholders. He noted that while the media serves as the watchdog of society through informing, educating, and holding public institutions accountable, security agencies are responsible for protecting lives, maintaining peace, and safeguarding the country’s sovereignty.
The NUJ President stressed that the relationship between journalists and security institutions must be anchored on professionalism, mutual respect, trust, and a shared commitment to national interest. He explained that the summit would provide a platform for media practitioners, security experts, government officials, and other stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue on emerging security concerns and strategies for effective collaboration.
He disclosed that discussions at the summit would focus on responsible security reporting, combating misinformation and disinformation, balancing national security concerns with press freedom, improving access to credible information, and enhancing cooperation between journalists and security agencies.
Yahya emphasized that the summit was not designed to compromise media independence or interfere with the operational responsibilities of security agencies. Rather, he said, it seeks to deepen understanding, promote dialogue, and establish frameworks for cooperation that would benefit the nation.
The NUJ President also appreciated the support of security institutions, government agencies, development partners, and media stakeholders who have embraced the initiative. He called on participants to approach the summit with open minds and a shared commitment to building a peaceful, secure, and prosperous Nigeria.
Reaffirming the union’s commitment to journalism that promotes democracy, national unity, and development, Yahya urged media practitioners to support the initiative by creating public awareness and ensuring that the objectives of the summit receive widespread attention across the country.
