DECAN seeks AI, satellite technology to tackle insecurity
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DECAN seeks AI, satellite technology to tackle insecurity
By Alabidun Shuaib AbdulRahman
The Defence Correspondents’ Association of Nigeria, DECAN has called for increased investment in artificial intelligence, satellite surveillance and intelligence gathering to tackle emerging security threats across the country.
The association said modern security challenges had extended beyond conventional battlefields to cyberspace, digital platforms, information networks and financial systems.
DECAN President, Odita Sunday, made the call while delivering his opening remarks at the association’s 2026 conference in Abuja.
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He warned that terrorist groups and criminal networks were increasingly exploiting technology for communication, recruitment and coordination, making it necessary for security agencies to strengthen their capacity to detect and prevent threats before they escalate.
Sunday urged the government to prioritise investments in artificial intelligence, data analytics, unmanned systems and secure communication networks to improve the operational capabilities of the military and other security agencies.
He, however, noted that technological advancement alone would not resolve the country’s security challenges without competent personnel, continuous training, effective institutions and sound policies.
The DECAN president also stressed the need for improved intelligence sharing among the military, police, intelligence services and other security agencies to ensure coordinated responses to emerging threats.
He said stronger collaboration among security institutions would improve threat detection, operational planning and the ability of authorities to respond swiftly to security emergencies.
On the recent Nigerian Air Force aircraft crash that claimed the lives of personnel and passengers, Sunday expressed condolences to the bereaved families and called for a thorough and professional investigation into the incident.
He said the findings should be used to improve aviation safety standards, operational procedures and personnel protection within the armed forces.
The association also expressed solidarity with the Nigerian Air Force, urging relevant authorities to implement measures that would prevent similar tragedies.
On defence reporting, Sunday urged journalists covering security matters to uphold accuracy, responsibility and professionalism, while cautioning against the use of operational security concerns to suppress legitimate journalism and accountability.
