Odita Takes Helm as DECAN President, Unveils Agenda for Members’ Welfare, Security Collaboration
Oru Leonard
The Defence Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DECAN) has elected a new executive committee to lead the association for the next two years, with veteran journalist Sunday Odita emerging as President.
The election, conducted in a peaceful and transparent atmosphere, also produced Linus Aleke as Vice President, Musa Umar Bologi as Secretary, and Benjamin Samson as Treasurer.
Other members of the newly elected executive are Martha Ebere (Assistant Secretary), Kikelomo Okere (Financial Secretary), Ihotu Odoh (Welfare Officer), Agbor Jame (Provost), and Mathew Abi (Public Relations Officer).
Following their emergence, the new executives pledged to place members’ welfare at the centre of their administration while deepening engagement with stakeholders across the defence, security and intelligence sectors.
Speaking shortly after the election, Odita assured members that the new leadership would work to strengthen unity within the association and create opportunities that would enhance professional development among defence correspondents.
He stressed that effective defence journalism requires a motivated and well-supported membership, adding that the association would pursue initiatives aimed at improving the welfare and capacity of its members.
The new DECAN President also pledged to foster stronger collaboration between the media and security institutions, noting that constructive partnerships are essential to promoting national security, peace and sustainable development.
According to him, the association will continue to serve as a credible bridge between the military, security agencies and the public through responsible and accurate reporting of security issues.
Odita further paid tribute to Nigerian troops for their sacrifices and commitment in confronting security threats across the country. He commended the leadership of 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 their strategic leadership and operational achievements.
He noted that the efforts of the Armed Forces and other security agencies have contributed significantly to national stability and created an enabling environment for socio-economic growth.
Reaffirming DECAN’s commitment to national development, Odita said the association would continue to support initiatives that advance peace, security and informed public discourse on defence-related matters.
Chief Odita Sunday is a veteran journalist with over 25 years of experience in defence, security, and crime reporting, Odita is widely respected for his professionalism, integrity, and commitment to journalists’ welfare. Publisher of RazorNews and former President of the Crime Reporters Association of Nigeria (CRAN). His leadership is expected to promote unity, professionalism, and stronger engagement with stakeholders while advancing defence journalism and supporting national security efforts.
