By Nkechi Eze
The Defence Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DECAN) has launched its association magazine, calling for increased investment in technology, intelligence gathering and inter-agency cooperation to address the country’s evolving security challenges.
The President of DECAN, Comrade Odita Sunday, made the call on Monday in Abuja at the association’s 2026 Conference and Awards, themed “Beyond Kinetic Warfare: Harnessing Technology and Intelligence-Led Operations for Nigeria’s National Security.”
Sunday said the changing nature of security threats required Nigeria to move beyond conventional military operations and embrace a proactive approach driven by intelligence, technological innovation and effective coordination among security agencies.
“National security can no longer be defined only by what happens on the traditional battlefield,” he said, noting that terrorist organisations and criminal networks were increasingly exploiting cyberspace, digital platforms, information networks and financial systems to coordinate their activities.
He stressed that Nigeria must strengthen its capacity to detect threats early, analyse intelligence accurately and prevent attacks before they occur.
“We must move from a predominantly reactive approach to one that places greater emphasis on prevention and intelligence-led operations,” Sunday said.
The DECAN president identified artificial intelligence, data analytics, satellite surveillance, unmanned systems and secure communications as technologies capable of enhancing the operational capabilities of security agencies.
He, however, emphasised that technology alone could not guarantee effective security without appropriate policies, skilled personnel and stronger intelligence-sharing arrangements.
“The threats confronting Nigeria do not operate within institutional boundaries,” he said, calling for timely and secure intelligence-sharing among the military, police, intelligence services, cyber experts and other relevant institutions.
Sunday also urged the government to invest in cybersecurity expertise and encourage Nigerian professionals and technology companies to develop solutions suited to the country’s security needs.
On the role of the media, he said defence correspondents had a responsibility to provide accurate, responsible and professional reporting that helps citizens understand the changing security environment.
“Our responsibility is not only to report events, but also to help Nigerians understand the changing nature of national security,” he said.
He warned that the rapid spread of misinformation made verification increasingly important, stressing that journalists must prioritise accuracy over the pressure to publish information quickly.
“In an age where misinformation can spread rapidly, accuracy must always come before speed,” Sunday stated.
He also cautioned against using national security as a justification for restricting legitimate journalism and accountability, insisting that the relationship between the media and security institutions should be built on mutual respect.
“National security should not be used to prevent legitimate journalism and accountability,” he said.
Reaffirming DECAN’s commitment to professional defence journalism, Sunday said the association would continue to promote constructive engagement among the military, security agencies, policymakers, technology experts, academics and the media.
He added that the association would encourage members to deepen their understanding of emerging technologies, intelligence, cybersecurity and modern warfare while recognising individuals and institutions whose contributions to national security and professional journalism deserved commendation.
The DECAN president also called for sustained investment in human capital, research, innovation and inter-agency cooperation, stressing that Nigeria must prepare for emerging security threats rather than rely solely on conventional military capabilities.
“The future of national security will depend not only on the weapons we possess, but on the quality of our information, intelligence, institutions and people,” he said.
On the recent Nigerian Air Force aircraft crash, Sunday expressed condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and the Nigerian Air Force, describing the incident as a painful reminder of the risks associated with military aviation.
He called for a thorough and professional investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the crash and identify lessons that could strengthen aviation safety and operational procedures.
He said the sacrifices of military personnel must be matched by institutional learning and renewed commitment to protecting those who serve the country.
Sunday further stressed that the deployment of emerging technologies for national security must be guided by the law, ethical standards, accountability and respect for human dignity.
The conference, he said, provided an opportunity for stakeholders to exchange ideas and develop practical solutions to Nigeria’s security challenges while strengthening cooperation between the security community and the media.
The launch of the DECAN Association Magazine formed part of the event, providing an additional platform for the association to promote professional defence journalism and discussions on national security.
