Defence Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DECAN) has elected a new executive committee in a peaceful and transparent election to steer the association for the next two years. Sunday Odita emerged President, alongside Linus Aleke as Vice President, Musa Umar Bologi as Secretary, and Benjamin Samson as Treasurer. Kikelomo Okere will serve as Financial Secretary, Ihotu Odoh as Welfare Officer, Agbor Jame as Provost, and Mathew Abi as Public Relations Officer. The incoming exco pledged to focus on members’ welfare and deepen collaboration with defence and security stakeholders to advance national security and development.
Speaking after the election, President Odita said member welfare and professional growth will top the association’s agenda, noting that a well-motivated membership is critical for credible defence reporting. He promised to engage stakeholders across the defence, security, and intelligence sectors to build stronger partnerships that boost national security and foster a peaceful environment for economic growth and infrastructure. Odita emphasized that the media and security institutions must work together to ensure accurate reporting, build public trust, and drive informed conversations on security issues.
Odita also saluted the bravery and sacrifices of Nigerian troops across operational theatres, and paid tribute to CDS General Olufemi Oluyede, COAS Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, CNS Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, and CAS Air Marshal Sunday Aneke for their leadership and operational successes. He said the Armed Forces and other security agencies have been pivotal in maintaining stability and creating conditions for socio-economic progress. DECAN reaffirmed its commitment to promoting peace and national development while acting as a trusted link between the military, security agencies, and the Nigerian public.
