Former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai, has accepted an invitation to deliver the keynote address at the 2026 Defence Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DECAN) Annual Lecture and Awards Ceremony in Abuja. The event is scheduled to take place on September 19, 2026. Buratai's participation was confirmed by the Public Relations Officer of DECAN, Matthew Abi.
Buratai's keynote address will focus on the theme "Beyond Kinetic Warfare: Harnessing Technology and Intelligence-Led Operations for Nigeria's National Security." He described the topic as timely and relevant to Nigeria's current security realities. The former Army chief emphasized the importance of professional associations in protecting members' welfare, job security, and professional interests.
During his tenure as Chief of Army Staff, Buratai introduced a policy allowing defence correspondents to accompany troops to operational theatres across the country. This initiative transformed the relationship between the military and the media, providing journalists with first-hand access to military operations. Buratai noted that this policy was introduced partly to counter Boko Haram propaganda.
Buratai recalled an operation where journalists accompanied him, and troops came under ambush while advancing towards Gamboru Ngala. Despite the challenges, troops successfully repelled the attack and captured insurgents alive. He said real-time reporting from the battlefield helped dismantle Boko Haram's dominance of the information space and prevented the spread of misinformation.
Buratai expressed appreciation to DECAN for nominating him for the Distinguished Leadership Award. He described the recognition as one he deeply cherished and pledged to sustain his cordial relationship with defence correspondents. Buratai confirmed his readiness to attend the event and deliver the keynote lecture.
DECAN President, Comrade Odita Sunday, said the delegation visited Buratai to formally notify him of his nomination and invite him to serve as Guest Lecturer. Sunday noted that Buratai's vast experience in military leadership, national defence, and security management would enrich discussions on emerging security threats and the growing role of technology and intelligence in modern warfare.
The 2026 DECAN Annual Lecture and Awards Ceremony aims to bring together policymakers, security professionals, journalists, academics, and other stakeholders to examine Nigeria's evolving security landscape. The awards segment will honour individuals and institutions whose contributions have advanced national security, defence, and responsible journalism in the country.
Key points
- Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai to deliver keynote at DECAN lecture on "Beyond Kinetic Warfare: Harnessing Technology and Intelligence-Led Operations for Nigeria's National Security"
- Buratai nominated for DECAN's Distinguished Leadership Award
- The 2026 DECAN Annual Lecture and Awards Ceremony to take place in Abuja on September 19, 2026
