Why Defence Journalists Honoured CDS Oluyede at DECAN Conference

By Zainab Uzomah

The Defence Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DECAN) has honoured the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, for his leadership of the Armed Forces of Nigeria and efforts to strengthen joint military operations.

Oluyede, represented by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, received the award at the DECAN Conference on National Security and Awards 2026, held on October 12 in Abuja.

The award recognised his emphasis on coordination among the Nigerian Army, Navy and Air Force to address evolving security threats, alongside improved intelligence sharing, personnel welfare and operational effectiveness.

At the conference, the CDS urged defence journalists to work with the military to combat misinformation and artificial intelligence-generated fake content capable of undermining national security.

He said modern warfare increasingly required technological advancement, timely intelligence and responsible management of information alongside conventional military operations.

The conference, themed “Beyond Kinetic Warfare: Harnessing Technology and Intelligence-Led Operations for Nigeria’s National Security,” brought together defence stakeholders and journalists to discuss strategies for tackling emerging security challenges.