Harry Archie
Sunday Odita has been elected President of the Defence Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DECAN), succeeding the outgoing leadership following a peaceful and transparent election held on Friday.
Odita emerged alongside seven other officials who will steer the affairs of the association for the next two years.
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The newly elected executives include Linus Aleke as Vice President, Musa Umar Bologi as Secretary, Benjamin Samson as Treasurer, Kikelomo Okere as Financial Secretary, Ihotu Odoh as Welfare Officer, Agbor Jame as Provost and Mathew Abi as Public Relations Officer.
The election, which was conducted without controversy, ushered in a new leadership team committed to strengthening the association and advancing professional excellence among defence correspondents.
Addressing members shortly after the exercise, Odita pledged to make the welfare of members a top priority, describing journalists covering the defence sector as critical partners in promoting national security through accurate and responsible reporting.
He said the new executive committee would work to build a more united and vibrant association while creating opportunities for members to enhance their professional capacity.
According to him, the association will also intensify engagement with stakeholders across the defence, intelligence and security sectors to foster stronger collaboration in support of peace, security and national development.
Odita noted that constructive partnerships between the media and security institutions are essential to strengthening public trust and ensuring that citizens receive credible information on security issues.
The new DECAN president further commended officers and men of the Nigerian Armed Forces for their commitment and sacrifices in tackling security challenges across the country.
He paid tribute to the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, as well as the service chiefs and commanders for what he described as their dedication and strategic leadership in maintaining peace and stability.
“The efforts of the Armed Forces and other security agencies have contributed significantly to protecting the nation’s sovereignty and creating an environment that supports socio-economic growth,” he said.
Odita reaffirmed DECAN’s commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at promoting peace, security and national development, while strengthening the association’s role as a bridge between the military, security institutions and the Nigerian public.
The newly elected executives are expected to assume office immediately and oversee the activities of the association for the next two years.
