The Defence Correspondents’ Association of Nigeria (DECAN) has called for greater investment in technology-driven and intelligence-led security operations, warning that modern security threats now extend beyond traditional battlefields to cyberspace, digital platforms, information networks and financial systems.
DECAN President, Odita Sunday who made the call while deliveringhis opening remarks at the association’s 2026 conference in Abuja, said terrorist groups and criminal networks are increasingly exploiting technology for communication, recruitment and coordination, making it imperative for Nigeria to strengthen early threat detection, intelligence gathering and preventive security operations.
He stressed the need for increased investment in artificial intelligence, data analytics, satellite surveillance, unmanned systems and secure communications to enhance the operational capabilities of the country’s security agencies.
According to him, technology alone cannot address security challenges without competent personnel, continuous training, effective institutions and sound policies.
Sunday also emphasised the importance of improved intelligence sharing among the military, police, intelligence services and other security agencies to ensure a more coordinated response to emerging threats.
On the recent Nigerian Air Force aircraft crash that claimed the lives of personnel and passengers, the DECAN president expressed condolences to the bereaved families and called for a thorough and professional investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
He said lessons from the tragedy should be used to strengthen aviation safety standards, operational procedures and personnel protection within the armed forces.
The association also expressed solidarity with the Nigerian Air Force and urged authorities to implement measures that would help prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Addressing the role of the media in national security, Sunday urged defence correspondents to maintain accuracy, responsibility and professionalism in reporting security-related issues.
He cautioned against using concerns over operational security as a justification for suppressing legitimate journalism and accountability.
DECAN reaffirmed its commitment to constructive engagement with security institutions and called for security operations that are technology-driven, intelligence-led and accountable, while remaining guided by the rule of law, ethical standards and respect for human dignity.
