The Defence Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DECAN) has elected a new executive committee to pilot the affairs of the association for the next two years, with veteran journalist Sunday Odita emerging as President.
The election, conducted in an atmosphere of unity and transparency, produced a fresh leadership team expected to deepen professional standards in defence reporting and strengthen engagement with critical stakeholders in the security sector.
Also elected into key positions were Linus Aleke as Vice President, Musa Umar Bologi as Secretary and Benjamin Samson as Treasurer.
Other members of the executive committee include Kikelomo Okere as Financial Secretary, Ihotu Odoh as Welfare Officer, Agbor Jame as Provost and Mathew Abi as Public Relations Officer.
The newly elected officials emerged through what members described as a peaceful and credible electoral process that reflected the association’s commitment to democratic values and institutional stability.
In their acceptance remarks, the new executives pledged to place members’ welfare at the centre of their administration while pursuing initiatives aimed at enhancing professionalism and unity within the association.
The leadership also promised to strengthen collaboration with the military, intelligence community and other security stakeholders in support of national peace, security and development objectives.
Speaking shortly after his emergence, Odita said the welfare and professional growth of members would remain a top priority, stressing that motivated journalists are critical to effective and responsible defence reporting.
He noted that the association would work towards creating opportunities for capacity building, professional development and greater inclusiveness among members.
Odita further pledged to mobilise support from key actors within the defence and security architecture to build stronger partnerships capable of advancing national security and fostering a peaceful environment for economic growth.
According to him, sustained cooperation between the media and security institutions remains essential in promoting accurate reporting, strengthening public confidence and encouraging informed discussions on security matters.
The DECAN President also paid tribute to officers and men of the Armed Forces of Nigeria for their courage, resilience and sacrifice in confronting security threats across various operational theatres.
He commended the Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Oluyede, alongside service chiefs and field commanders for their commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Odita observed that the collective efforts of the military and other security agencies have continued to play a significant role in preserving national stability and creating an enabling environment for socio economic development.
He reaffirmed DECAN’s commitment to supporting initiatives that advance peace, security and national development, while strengthening the association’s role as a credible bridge between security institutions, policymakers and the Nigerian public.