DECAN Elects New Executives in Peaceful Transition

The Defence Correspondents Association of Nigeria, DECAN, has elected a new set of executives to pilot the affairs of the association for the next two years, with veteran defence correspondent Sunday Odita emerging as President. The election, described as peaceful and transparent, also produced Linus Aleke as Vice President, Musa Umar Bologi as Secretary and Benjamin Samson as Treasurer. Other elected officials include Kikelomo Okere as Financial Secretary, Ihotu Odoh as Welfare Officer, Agbor Jame as Provost and Mathew Abi as Public Relations Officer.

Odita: Members' Welfare at the Forefront

Speaking shortly after the election, Odita pledged to place the welfare of members at the centre of his administration while deepening engagement with stakeholders in the defence, security and intelligence sectors. He said a motivated and professionally empowered membership remains critical to effective defence journalism and the continued growth of the association.

The welfare of our members will remain at the forefront of our agenda. A motivated and professionally empowered membership is essential for effective defence journalism.

— Sunday Odita, President, DECAN

Building a More Vibrant, United Association

The newly elected President assured members that the executive committee would work towards building a more vibrant and united association capable of promoting professional excellence and constructive engagement with institutions responsible for safeguarding the country. He said DECAN would mobilise critical stakeholders within the defence and security architecture to strengthen partnerships aimed at enhancing national security and creating a peaceful environment conducive to economic growth and infrastructural development.

Media and Military Must Work Together — Odita

Odita stressed the need for sustained collaboration among the media, military and other strategic actors in promoting accurate reporting, public trust and informed discourse on security issues. He reaffirmed the association's commitment to supporting initiatives that promote peace, security and national development, while strengthening DECAN's role as a credible bridge between the military, security institutions and the Nigerian public.

The media, defence institutions and other strategic actors must continue to work together in promoting accurate reporting, public trust and informed discourse on security matters.

— Sunday Odita

Tribute to Troops and Military Chiefs

Odita commended the courage, resilience and sacrifices of Nigerian troops engaged in various operations across the country, noting that their efforts have continued to safeguard the nation's sovereignty and territorial integrity. He paid tribute to the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede; the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu; the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas; and the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, for what he described as their strategic leadership and operational achievements in maintaining peace and stability.

The new executives pledged collectively to prioritise members' welfare and strengthen collaboration with key stakeholders across the defence and security sector in support of national security, peace and development.