By Ameh Gabriel
A major diplomatic and security-focused gathering is set to take centre stage in Abuja on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, as the Diplomatic Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DICAN) hosts its inaugural Diplomatic/Security International Conference.
Themed “Nigeria’s 4Ds Foreign Policy Strategy Amidst Global Security Challenges, Strategic Misperceptions, and the Age of Disinformation: The Role of Diplomacy, Intelligence, and Media in Shaping National and Global Stability,” the conference aims to bridge the critical intersection of diplomacy, national security, and media accountability, while spotlighting Nigeria’s evolving foreign policy under the 4Ds framework Democracy, Development, Demography, and Diaspora – championed by Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, Minister of Foreign Affairs.
According to DICAN Chairman, Idehai Frederick, the conference is a bold intellectual response to the need for synergy between Nigeria’s diplomatic strategy and its internal security priorities.
“This is more than a media event. It’s a platform for cross-sectoral engagement one that positions the media, diplomats, and security agencies as co-navigators of Nigeria’s global positioning and national survival,” he said.
Honours and Awards: Recognising Excellence
In recognition of outstanding contributions to diplomacy, peacebuilding, national security, and public service, DICAN will confer its Award of Excellence on 20 distinguished individuals and institutions, including:
Former President Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, for his outstanding role in peace diplomacy and conflict resolution across Africa.
Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), honoured for transformative anti-drug campaigns and institutional reforms.
Allen Onyema, Chairman of Air Peace, recognized for supporting national diplomacy through regional connectivity, humanitarian evacuations, and logistics.
Also receiving accolades is the Embassy of the Arab Republic of Egypt in Nigeria, for its consistent contributions to Nigeria-Egypt bilateral cooperation and diplomatic ties.
Other honourees include prominent security chiefs, humanitarian leaders, and public institutions that have contributed to strengthening Nigeria’s international presence and internal stability.
Speakers and Key Participants
The high-level conference will feature keynote addresses, panel discussions, and strategic dialogue sessions led by eminent figures, including:
Amb. Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, Minister of Foreign Affairs (Chief Host)
Minister of Defence
Minister of Interior
Amb. Gautier Mignot, Head of the European Union Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS
Amb. Mohamed Fouad, Egyptian Ambassador to Nigeria
Nigeria’s Service Chiefs and Foreign Mission Heads
This forum, the first of its kind by a media body, is expected to attract diplomats, security experts, foreign mission representatives, journalists, academics, and civil society stakeholders.
Why It Matters
DICAN sees this conference as a timely platform for building collective resilience in an era defined by global uncertainties, misinformation, and transnational threats.
“Diplomacy has evolved – it’s no longer restricted to embassy walls. It’s now a core tool for advancing economic development, countering global threats, and shaping Nigeria’s international image,” said Idehai. “This conference provides that space for strategic reflection and proactive discourse.”
About DICAN
The Diplomatic Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DICAN) is a non-partisan professional body representing journalists who cover foreign policy, international diplomacy, and multilateral relations. DICAN fosters engagement between Nigeria’s diplomatic community and the public through informed reporting, policy dialogue, and advocacy for transparency in global affairs.
