Pix: Isiaka Mustapha, Convener, 2025 Annual PSM Security Summit

The Chief Operating Officer/Editor-in-Chief of the People’s Security Monitor (PSM) and convener of the annual PSM Security Summit, Isiaka Mustapha, on Wednesday reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to promoting national security consciousness, professional excellence and inter-agency cooperation in Nigeria. Mustapha made this known while delivering his welcome address at the 2025 Annual People’s Security Monitor Security Summit and Recognition Awards, held at the Nigerian National Merit Award House, Maitama, Abuja.

Addressing an audience of top security leaders, award recipients, policymakers and partners, Mustapha described the summit as “a defining moment in our collective pursuit of a safer and more secure Nigeria.” He noted that the annual gathering was not merely ceremonial but “a purposeful national engagement aimed at building bridges, deepening understanding, and strengthening the pillars of internal security.”

Mustapha emphasised that the People’s Security Monitor would continue to champion responsible security reporting and foster collaboration among stakeholders. According to him, the summit was conceived to inspire reforms, encourage synergy among agencies, and promote a culture of security consciousness across all sectors.

He stressed that the 2025 edition of the summit was particularly significant because Nigeria’s security landscape continues to evolve rapidly. “The challenges facing our nation require stronger coordination, deeper community engagement, and renewed professional excellence,” he said, urging participants to approach the day’s discussions with openness and shared responsibility.

The PSM boss expressed profound gratitude to the keynote speakers and special guests, including the Controller General of the Federal Fire Service, CG Samuel Adeyemi Olumode, whose modernization reforms he described as “transformational and worthy of national applause.” He commended Olumode for consistently pushing the Fire Service toward global best practices.

Mustapha also recognised Retired Assistant Inspector General of Police Wilson Inalegwu, praising his wealth of experience and continued contributions to national development. Inalegwu, while responding, said Nigeria must strengthen its internal capacity to solve its security challenges. “We must believe in our own systems and structures. National security cannot be outsourced,” he said, commending PSM for creating a platform that unites key actors in the sector.

The convener further acknowledged the leadership of other distinguished security figures at the event, including ACC John Onoja Attah of the NSCDC Special Mining Marshals; Navy Captain (Dr.) Umar Bakori (rtd), Commander General of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria; Dr Elijah Etim Wille, Commandant of NSCDC Enugu Command; Commander Brah Samson Umoru of Nasarawa Command; and Commandant Emmanuel Ajayi of Sokoto Command. He said their dedication “continues to reinforce national hope.”

Mustapha extended appreciation to all partners, institutions and supporters who contributed to the success of the 2025 summit, while paying special tribute to the Minister of Defence, Retired General Christopher Musa, OFR, for his unwavering commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s defence posture.

He used the platform to reiterate that Nigeria must depend on its internal strength and unity, rather than external intervention, to overcome insecurity. “The path to lasting peace lies within our own resolve, our unity, and our collective commitment to fight insecurity with dedication and integrity,” he said.

The convener announced that the summit would feature awards recognising individuals and institutions whose contributions to national security embody diligence, patriotism and service. He congratulated the honorees and encouraged them to see their recognition as “a call to greater dedication,” noting that the nation still requires their expertise and courage.

As the summit commenced, Mustapha urged participants to engage fully, exchange ideas and contribute to solutions that could reshape Nigeria’s security architecture. He expressed confidence that the conversations generated at the event would strengthen national stability and reinforce efforts toward a secure Nigeria.

Mustapha closed his remarks with a message of optimism and national unity. “May our discussions be productive, our reflections sincere, and our collective commitment lead Nigeria toward lasting security and sustainable stability,” he said, before declaring the summit open.