By: Chioma Vivian James.

The Nigerian Navy has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing national security, strategic communication and gender inclusion by pledging full participation and support for the forthcoming Women in Security (WINSEC) Summit & Awards 2026.

The assurance was given during a courtesy visit by the National Chairperson of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Comrade Aisha Ibrahim, and members of her delegation to the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, at the Naval Headquarters, Abuja. The Naval Chief was represented by the Chief of Naval Transformation and Innovation (CNTI), Rear bAdmiral Chijioke Onyemaobi.The visit was aimed at formally inviting the Nigerian Navy to partner with NAWOJ for the WINSEC Summit & Awards 2026, scheduled to hold on August 5, 2026, at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja.

Speaking on behalf of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Onyemaobi conveyed the Naval Chief’s goodwill and assured the delegation of the Navy’s unwavering support for the initiative.

He confirmed that the Nigerian Navy would not only participate actively in the summit but would also contribute meaningfully toward its success through high-level representation and institutional support.According to him, the summit is a timely platform that aligns with global efforts to promote peace, security, gender equality and women’s empowerment, while fostering constructive dialogue among critical stakeholders.

Rear Admiral Onyemaobi emphasized that gender inclusion remains a core value within the Nigerian Navy, noting that women continue to play increasingly strategic roles across operational, technical and leadership positions within the Service.

He highlighted the professionalism, competence and contributions of female officers, stressing that their growing presence has strengthened the effectiveness and operational capacity of the Navy.

The senior naval officer also acknowledged the often-unseen role of women in supporting military families, describing their resilience and commitment as vital to the success and welfare of service personnel.Commending NAWOJ for its vision and professionalism, he described the Association’s efforts in creating a platform for meaningful conversations on security and nation-building as commendable and impactful.

Earlier, NAWOJ National Chairperson, Comrade Aisha Ibrahim, praised the Nigerian Navy for its sustained efforts in protecting Nigeria’s maritime domain, combating piracy and maritime crimes, safeguarding critical national assets and supporting the Federal Government’s Blue Economy Agenda.

She described the Navy as one of Nigeria’s most strategic institutions, whose dedication and sacrifices continue to enhance national security and economic growth.

Comrade Ibrahim explained that the WINSEC Summit & Awards 2026 is designed as a high-level national platform that will convene leaders from the armed forces, law enforcement agencies, government institutions, the diplomatic community, development partners, academia, traditional and religious institutions, civil society organisations and the media.

The summit, she noted, aims to strengthen conversations around peacebuilding, security governance, women’s leadership and inclusive nation-building.

She further appealed to the Nigerian Navy to deepen collaboration with NAWOJ through active participation in the summit and broader partnerships focused on strategic communication, capacity building, public awareness campaigns, maritime security advocacy, environmental sustainability, youth engagement and the Women, Peace and Security agenda.

The engagement also featured insightful discussions on gender inclusion within both journalism and the military profession, with senior naval officers reiterating their commitment to creating more opportunities for women while encouraging excellence, professionalism and healthy competition across all sectors.

The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both organisations expressing confidence that a stronger partnership between the Nigerian Navy and NAWOJ would enhance public understanding of security issues, strengthen trust between security institutions and citizens, and contribute to a safer, more peaceful and prosperous Nigeria.

As preparations gather momentum for WINSEC Summit & Awards 2026, the Nigerian Navy’s endorsement stands as a significant boost to the initiative, reinforcing the growing recognition of women’s role in shaping sustainable peace, security and national development.