By Harriet Tornguvan
Veteran journalist and defence correspondent, Odita Sunday, has emerged as the new President of the Defence Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DECAN), following his unopposed election during the association’s general meeting in Abuja.
Odita succeeds Ismail Musa of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), taking over the leadership of the influential body at a critical time when security reporting remains central to national discourse.
His emergence was widely welcomed by members of the association, who unanimously endorsed him in recognition of his extensive experience, professional integrity, and longstanding commitment to the welfare of journalists covering the defence and security sector.
With more than 25 years of experience reporting on defence, security, crime, and national affairs, Odita is regarded as one of Nigeria’s most accomplished defence correspondents. He is the Publisher of RazorNews, a media platform known for its in-depth coverage and analysis of defence and security issues.
Before his election, Odita had built a distinguished career spanning several media organizations, including serving as Defence and Security Editor of The Guardian. Throughout his journalism career, he has reported extensively on military operations, counter-insurgency campaigns, security engagements, and defence policies across Nigeria.
His leadership credentials were further strengthened by his six-year tenure as President of the Crime Reporters Association of Nigeria (CRAN), where he championed professionalism, capacity development, and improved welfare for members.
Colleagues and stakeholders within the media industry have described his election as a reflection of the confidence reposed in his ability to advance ethical journalism, strengthen professional standards, and deepen collaboration between the media and security institutions.
Odita’s career has been marked by extensive exposure to military operations and international defence engagements. He has participated in numerous military trainings, seminars, and workshops, and has been embedded in several military exercises within and outside Nigeria.
Among his notable assignments was his participation in the media delegation that travelled to Senegal to receive the Nigerian Navy Ship Thunder following its transfer from the United States. He also took part in several editions of Exercise Obangame Express in Cameroon and Ghana, flew aboard a Nigerian Air Force maritime patrol aircraft during regional security operations, and spent eight days at sea with the Nigerian Navy during Exercise Farauta in the Gulf of Guinea.
Widely respected within the defence and security community, Odita has received several awards for excellence in investigative journalism, security reporting, and humanitarian service. Beyond his professional achievements, he is recognised for his philanthropic activities and advocacy for national development through impactful journalism.
Industry observers believe his emergence will usher in a new chapter for DECAN, marked by greater unity among members, enhanced welfare programmes, professional capacity building, and stronger engagement with stakeholders in Nigeria’s security architecture.
Analysts also note that his vast experience and deep understanding of national security issues position him to strengthen defence journalism and support ongoing national efforts aimed at combating terrorism, insurgency, and other security threats confronting the country.
His election comes as Nigeria continues to grapple with complex security challenges, underscoring the critical role of responsible and professional defence reporting in promoting public understanding and national security awareness.
