NUJ to Host National Security Summit to Strengthen Media-Security Agency Partnership

Timescope News 

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has announced plans to organize a National Security Summit aimed at fostering stronger collaboration between the media and security agencies in addressing the nation's security challenges.

Addressing journalists at a press conference in Abuja, NUJ President, Comrade Alhassan Yahya, revealed that the summit, themed "Media and Security Agencies as Partners in Nation Building," would provide a platform for constructive engagement among media practitioners, security experts, government officials, and other relevant stakeholders.

Yahya emphasized that national security remains a collective responsibility requiring the commitment and cooperation of all stakeholders, noting that both the media and security institutions occupy strategic positions in shaping public discourse, promoting peace, and strengthening national cohesion.

"The media has a constitutional responsibility to inform, educate, and hold authorities accountable. At the same time, security agencies remain critical partners in protecting lives, maintaining peace, and safeguarding the sovereignty of our nation," Yahya stated.

The NUJ president stressed that the relationship between both institutions must be built on mutual respect, professionalism, trust, and a shared commitment to the common good.

Key issues to be discussed at the summit include responsible security reporting, combating misinformation and disinformation, protecting national interests while upholding press freedom, improving access to credible information, and strengthening collaboration between journalists and security institutions.

Yahya clarified that the summit is not intended to undermine 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.

"A well-informed society is a safer society. Journalists must continue to report security matters with accuracy, balance, and sensitivity, while security agencies must appreciate the media as an essential partner in democratic governance and national development," he added.

The NUJ president called on all participants to approach the summit with open minds and a shared vision of a peaceful, secure, and prosperous Nigeria, while urging members of the press to support the initiative by creating awareness and ensuring the summit's objectives receive wide public attention.

The NUJ reaffirmed its commitment to promoting journalism that strengthens democracy, supports national unity, and contributes meaningfully to nation building.