Abuja, June 14, 2026 – Prominent figures in Nigeria’s security, defence and governance sectors were recognised for their contributions to national development at the Nigerian People’s Strategic Conference and Defence Exhibition 2026 held in Abuja.
The honours were presented during the conference, which attracted policymakers, military officers, security professionals, legislators and representatives of the private sector.
Among the recipients was the Minister of Defence, retired Gen. Christopher Musa, who received the Distinguished National Security Leadership Award for his role in advancing the country’s defence and security framework.
The Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Mr Adeola Ajayi, was recognised with the Distinguished National Intelligence Leadership Award for his efforts in intelligence management, security coordination and safeguarding national interests.
Also honoured was the Director-General of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), Maj.-Gen. Babatunde Alaya, who received the Defence Industrial Development Award for his contributions to indigenous defence production and technological advancement.
Chief Executive Officer of EPAIL Nigeria Limited, Engr. Kola Balogun, was presented with the Private Sector Security Innovation Award in recognition of his commitment to security technology development and investment in strategic national initiatives.
Sen. Osita Izunaso was awarded the Legislative Leadership for National Security Award for his contributions to policies and legislative actions aimed at strengthening governance, security and national development.
Retired Maj.-Gen. Victor Ezugwu received the Lifetime Achievement Award for National Service in recognition of his distinguished military career and longstanding contributions to peace, security and nation-building.
Speaking during the event, conference convener Charles Awuzie said the awards were instituted to celebrate individuals and organisations that have made significant impacts in strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture and supporting national progress.
According to him, the recipients were selected based on their leadership qualities, innovation, dedication to public service and commitment to the country’s stability and development.
The conference, themed “Building a Modern Security Ecosystem: Integrating Private Sector Capacity into Nigeria’s National Security Architecture,” provided a platform for discussions on defence sector reforms, local defence manufacturing, intelligence collaboration and stronger partnerships between government and private sector stakeholders in addressing security challenges.
The event concluded with a renewed call for greater cooperation among security institutions, policymakers and industry players to build a more resilient and effective national security system.