By Our Reporter
The Defence Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DECAN) has conferred its patron title on Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, Permanent Secretary, General Services Office, Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF), in recognition of his role in transforming the Ministry of Defence, improving military healthcare and supporting the association’s institutional development, including its registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).
Kana was decorated with the Ceremonial Sash at the DECAN Conference on National Security and Awards 2026, held on Monday, Oct. 12, at the Army Command Officers’ Mess 1, Asokoro, Abuja.
He was honoured for his cooperation with defence correspondents during his tenure as Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, where his support contributed to strengthening engagement between the ministry and journalists covering defence and security issues.
The conferment was part of DECAN’s efforts to recognise individuals whose contributions have advanced professional defence journalism and fostered constructive relations between the media and the defence establishment.
His support was instrumental to DECAN’s successful registration with the CAC, a milestone that gave the association formal corporate recognition and strengthened its institutional foundation.
The registration enhanced the association’s standing as an organised body representing journalists covering defence and security matters in Nigeria.
Kana’s recognition also highlights the importance of cooperation between government officials and the media in promoting transparency, responsible reporting and informed public discourse on national security.
During his tenure at the Ministry of Defence, Kana was involved in administrative leadership and initiatives relating to the ministry’s operations, including efforts to improve military healthcare delivery and other important institutional reforms.
DECAN’s conferment of the patron title reflects its appreciation of his contributions to the association’s development and his support for defence correspondents.
The association continues to engage stakeholders in the defence and security sector to promote professional journalism and informed public discourse on national security.
