In a bold and unified effort to address Africa’s growing and complex security challenges, top security professionals, policymakers, agency heads, and global stakeholders converged in Lagos, Nigeria, for the Sub-Saharan Africa Security Conference (SASCON) 2025.
Hosted by ASIS International Lagos Chapter 206—widely regarded as the most vibrant chapter on the continent—the two-day high-level summit, held from July 22 to 23, provided a robust platform for dialogue, collaboration, and innovation under the theme *“Strategic Approaches to Security in Complex Africa.”*
The opening ceremony, held on Thursday, drew a powerful call for coordinated action in the face of escalating threats including terrorism, cyber insecurity, transnational crime, political instability, and humanitarian crises. Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee and host chapter, Mr. Adedeji Oduba, CPP, PSP, described the event as both a “great honour” and a “humbling privilege.” He emphasized that Africa must now move from conversations to concrete strategies and intentional leadership in the realm of security.
“We are here not just to talk, but to strategize, collaborate, and lead more intentionally,” Oduba said. “This conference is designed as a platform to inspire practical solutions and reinforce professional excellence across the continent.”
The event attracted a distinguished lineup of participants, including Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa; Director-General of the Department of State Services, Mr. Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi; Honourable Ministers; members of the diplomatic corps; ASIS International President Mr. Joe Olivarez; ASIS CEO Mr. Bill Tenney; and other high-ranking regional and international security experts.
Oduba also used the occasion to acknowledge the dedication of the Local Organizing Committee, sponsors, partners, and volunteers who made the summit possible. He noted that the sessions over the two days would serve as catalysts for deep engagement, knowledge sharing, and the forging of long-term partnerships.
Key sessions during the conference focused on terrorism, cyber threats, border security, and the protection of critical infrastructure. Speakers highlighted the urgency of adopting dynamic, adaptable, and multi-dimensional approaches to tackle the continent’s ever-evolving threat landscape amid shifting socio-political realities.
The opening ceremony also featured a tribute to the late Mr. Peter Okoloh, a former Vice Chair and Chair of ASIS Lagos Chapter 206, remembered as a passionate and dedicated leader. A moment of silence was observed in his honour.
As the conference concluded, SASCON 2025 was hailed as a strategic intervention that would reshape the regional security narrative and accelerate collaborative efforts to fortify Africa’s defense architecture. Stakeholders expressed hope that the outcomes of the summit would significantly advance peace, stability, and professional security practice across the continent.