Abuja, Nigeria – The Diplomatic Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DICAN) is set to host its inaugural Diplomatic/Security International Conference in Abuja on July 23, 2025.
The conference will bring together seasoned diplomats, representatives of foreign missions, security chiefs, media professionals, researchers, and civil society actors to discuss Nigeria’s foreign policy strategy and national security.
DICAN Chairman Idehai Frederick described the conference as a bold intellectual platform aimed at bridging the gap between security policy, diplomatic action, and media accountability.
“Nigeria is undergoing a deep recalibration of its foreign policy doctrine under the 4D framework,” he said. “We believe the media has a crucial role in amplifying these strategies, while experts and diplomats must align security and diplomacy with real-time global shifts. This conference offers that synergy.”
The conference will feature keynote addresses, panel discussions, and thought leadership sessions with prominent speakers, including Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, the Minister of Defence, the Minister of Interior, Ambassador Gautier Mignot, Head of the European Union Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, and the Ambassador of the Arab Republic of Egypt to Nigeria, Mohamed Fouad, as well as Nigeria’s Service Chiefs and select heads of foreign missions.
As part of the conference, DICAN will present the prestigious DICAN Award of Excellence to 20 distinguished personalities and institutions who have demonstrated unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s progress and international stature.
Among those to be honored are former President Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan for his enduring efforts in peace diplomacy and conflict resolution across Africa, Retired Brigadier General Buba Marwa, Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), for his trailblazing anti-narcotics reforms, Allen Onyema, Chairman of Air Peace, for fostering regional connectivity, crisis evacuation, and supporting national diplomacy through aviation logistics, and the Embassy of the Arab Republic of Egypt in Nigeria for its consistent diplomatic engagement and support for bilateral cooperation.
According to Idehai, “We are living in an era where diplomacy is not just about embassies and bilateral meetings. It is now an essential tool in combating transnational threats, shaping economic development, and projecting national interest. This conference creates that rare space for reflective, inclusive discourse.” The conference aims to reinforce Nigeria’s place in global diplomacy while addressing existential security challenges.