By Gabriel Ameh
ABUJA – The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) has announced plans for the maiden edition of the Women in Security Summit and Awards (WINSEC 2026), a national initiative aimed at recognising excellence in the security sector while promoting stronger collaboration among key stakeholders to enhance peace and national security.
Speaking during a press briefing in Abuja on Monday, National Chairperson of NAWOJ, Hajiya Aishatu Ibrahim, said the summit would provide a platform for dialogue on emerging security challenges, gender inclusion, and sustainable solutions to Nigeria’s security concerns.
According to her, the inaugural Women in Security Summit and Awards is scheduled to hold on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at the Transcorp Hilton Abuja.
She described security as a collective responsibility that extends beyond government and security agencies, stressing that every Nigerian has a role to play in building a peaceful and secure nation.
Aishatu explained that WINSEC was conceived by NAWOJ in collaboration with strategic partners to celebrate excellence, encourage professionalism, strengthen partnerships, and amplify the contributions of women to national peace and security.
She said the summit would bring together senior government officials, members of the armed forces, paramilitary organisations, law enforcement agencies, intelligence institutions, traditional rulers, diplomats, civil society groups, academics, media practitioners, development partners, and private sector leaders.
According to her, discussions at the summit will focus on emerging security threats, promoting women’s participation in security leadership, fostering stronger institutional partnerships, and encouraging community involvement in addressing security challenges.
The NAWOJ Chairperson disclosed that one of the highlights of the event would be the presentation of awards to carefully selected individuals who have made significant contributions to national security, public safety, humanitarian services, peacebuilding, community policing, strategic leadership, and media advocacy.
She emphasised that the awards are based on merit and are intended to recognise integrity, patriotism, professionalism, courage, and outstanding service to Nigeria rather than political considerations or popularity.
“We believe that when excellence is recognised, others are inspired to do more. Celebrating today’s heroes helps build a stronger and safer Nigeria,” she said.
Aishatu also highlighted the critical role of the media in promoting peace, combating misinformation, shaping public opinion, and supporting national security while safeguarding press freedom.
She appreciated sponsors, partners, security agencies, members of the organising committee, and supporters for their contributions toward the success of the maiden summit.
The NAWOJ Chairperson further called on corporate organisations, development partners, public institutions, and patriotic Nigerians to support the initiative, saying sustained collaboration would help institutionalise a platform that promotes excellence, national unity, peace, and security.
She congratulated award nominees and recipients for their commitment to national service and urged Nigerians, particularly media professionals, to participate in the summit and contribute to its success.
