Politics
NAWOJ Set To Honour Security Champions at WINSEC Summit 2026 – THISAGE
By Barth Ikiebe
The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) has concluded plans to hold its maiden Women in Security Summit and Awards (WINSEC 2026), in Abuja on Wednesday.
The summit is designed to recognise outstanding contributions to national security, peacebuilding, humanitarian service and media advocacy.
NAWOJ National Chairperson, Hajia Aisha Ibrahim, told newsmen in Abuja that the summit reflected the association’s commitment to inclusive security dialogue and celebrating individuals whose dedication has strengthened Nigeria’s peace and stability.
She noted that the initiative was conceived because security has become a shared responsibility requiring citizens, institutions and communities to work together.
According to her, “Security is no longer the responsibility of government and security agencies alone; it is a collective responsibility requiring the support and participation of every citizen.”
Hajia Ibrahim explained that discussions would focus on emerging security threats, gender inclusion in security leadership, institutional partnerships and community-driven approaches to sustaining peace.
On the selection of award recipients, Ibrahim said NAWOJ Chairperson stated that selection of Award recipients was done in collaboration with security agencies and a screening committee to ensure credibility.
“In the security sector, it is not everything that you know about anybody, but they have the records of who they believe has done very well.”
She noted that civilian nominees were assessed through research, verification and field visits.
“Somebody nominated Right Honourable Muktar Betara because of his empowerment programmes and security infrastructure provided in his constituency. We formed a small team that visited the constituency, and what we saw was much bigger than what was reported,” Ibrahim stated.
She stressed that the awards were based on merit and service.
“These awards are not political. They are not for popularity. They are a recognition of integrity, dedication, patriotism, courage, professionalism and exceptional service to humanity and our nation.”
Hajia Ibrahim said WINSEC would also address the challenges facing women in security, noting that gender inclusion remained critical.
She observed that many women in security agencies have faced barriers due to gender and that the summit would provide an opportunity to discuss solutions.
“Women have been fighting side by side with men to protect the integrity and sovereignty of this country, but nobody has ever come out to say these women have done that, well done,” Ibrahim noted.
One of those to be honoured is Aisha Gombi from Adamawa State, whom Ibrahim described as an example of courage.
“She was pregnant, yet she went to Sambisa Forest and was fighting Boko Haram. These are the kind of people we are bringing out for society to see, recognise and encourage”.
Hajia Ibrahim promised that WINSEC would become an annual event, adding that the maiden edition would feature the conferment of the Patron of NAWOJ honour on the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim.
She urged women to take active roles in security and peacebuilding, saying their influence could help transform communities.
The WINSEC summit/Awards will bring together senior government officials, military and paramilitary leaders, law enforcement agencies, diplomats, traditional rulers, civil society organisations, academics, development partners, media professionals and private sector stakeholders.
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