The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) has unveiled plans for the maiden edition of the Women in Security Summit and Awards (WINSEC 2026), describing the initiative as a national platform aimed at promoting gender inclusion, strengthening collaboration among stakeholders and recognising individuals making outstanding contributions to Nigeria’s security architecture.

Addressing journalists during a press briefing in Abuja on Tuesday, NAWOJ National Chairperson, Hajia Aishatu Ibrahim, said the summit, scheduled for Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja, would convene key actors across the security, governance and development sectors to explore practical solutions to the country’s evolving security challenges.

She said the initiative was conceived in collaboration with strategic partners in recognition of the growing need to celebrate excellence, encourage professionalism and amplify the critical role women play in advancing peace, security and national development.

According to Ibrahim, achieving sustainable peace and development requires collective action, stressing that security should not be viewed as the sole responsibility of government and security agencies.

“The Women in Security Summit and Awards was established to celebrate excellence, foster collaboration, encourage professionalism and amplify the indispensable role of women in promoting peace and national security,” she said.

She noted that the summit would bring together representatives of the military, paramilitary organisations, law enforcement agencies, intelligence institutions, traditional institutions, the diplomatic community, civil society organisations, academia, the media, the private sector and development partners to deliberate on emerging security threats and strategies for addressing them.

Ibrahim explained that discussions at the summit would focus on strengthening partnerships, promoting women’s inclusion in security leadership and encouraging greater community participation in safeguarding the country.

A major highlight of the event, she added, would be the presentation of awards to individuals whose contributions have significantly impacted national security, peacebuilding, humanitarian services, community policing, strategic leadership and media advocacy.

She emphasised that the awards were merit-based and designed to recognise integrity, patriotism, professionalism, courage and selfless service rather than political influence or popularity.

“These awards are not political. They are not for popularity. They recognise integrity, dedication, patriotism, courage, professionalism and exceptional service to humanity and our nation,” Ibrahim stated.

She expressed confidence that recognising outstanding service would motivate others to contribute more actively to national peace and security efforts.

The NAWOJ chairperson also underscored the critical role of the media in supporting national security through responsible journalism, combating misinformation and promoting peaceful coexistence without undermining press freedom.

She said the summit would further strengthen collaboration between journalists and security institutions by fostering mutual trust and understanding.

Ibrahim commended partners, sponsors, security agencies and members of the organising committee for supporting the initiative and appealed to corporate organisations, development partners, public institutions and patriotic Nigerians to support efforts aimed at institutionalising the summit.

She also congratulated nominees and award recipients for their outstanding contributions to national development and called on Nigerians, particularly media professionals, to participate actively in the inaugural event.

According to her, WINSEC is expected to become an enduring platform for celebrating courage, honouring distinguished service, promoting inclusion and reinforcing the nation’s commitment to sustainable peace, security and prosperity.