The Minister of State for Defence, Alhaji Bello Matawalle, has said that emerging tools such as artificial intelligence, data analytics, advanced imagery systems and cyber capabilities have significantly strengthened the ability of the military and other security agencies to detect, analyse and respond to threats.
He noted that the integration of modern technology with human intelligence was a central focus of deliberations at the Chief of Defence Intelligence Annual Conference 2025.
Declaring the conference closed in Abuja on Friday, the minister said: “We must recognise that technology alone is not sufficient. The judgement, experience and dedication of our intelligence personnel remain indispensable. The true strength of our intelligence system lies in the synergy between the two—where technology amplifies human capacity and human insight guides its application.”
Matawalle added that participants had examined practical strategies for embedding multi-source intelligence into Nigeria’s security framework and reviewed case studies in which intelligence solutions prevented crises and enhanced operational outcomes.
He assured attendees that the Ministry of Defence would give due attention to the recommendations adopted at the conference and work with relevant stakeholders to ensure their effective implementation.
He encouraged the Armed Forces to continue embracing new technologies, strengthen inter-agency cooperation and uphold the highest standards of professionalism in intelligence operations.
Nigeria’s future security, he said, depends not on working in isolation but on building partnerships rooted in trust, shared commitment and collective responsibility.
The minister commended the Chief of Defence Intelligence and his team for successfully organising the conference, stressing that their dedication had significantly enriched national security efforts.
In his closing remarks, the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Lieutenant General Emmanuel Undiandeye, described this year’s engagement as both stimulating and rewarding.
“It provided a unique platform for defence chiefs, advisers and field commanders to share experiences, examine emerging intelligence concepts and reinforce professional bonds across national and regional security institutions,” he said.
He added, “I am confident that the conversations, papers and briefs presented have laid a solid foundation for the continued modernisation of our intelligence architecture.”
He added that the deliberations reaffirmed the need for strong synergy across Human Intelligence (HUMINT), Signals Intelligence (SIGINT), Geospatial Intelligence (GEOINT) and Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT) to effectively tackle contemporary threats that continue to grow in complexity and scale.
Undiandeye urged participants to apply the lessons learned and sustain the momentum generated throughout the conference.
End
To Boost National Security, Experts Advocate Greater Jointness, Innovation
Linus Aleke in Abuja
Security experts in Nigeria are calling for stronger collaboration and innovative approaches to reinforce national efforts aimed at tackling rising insecurity across the country.
At a press conference in Abuja on Thursday, the Chairman of the Interim Caretaker Management Committee of the Association of Licensed Private Security Practitioners of Nigeria (ALPSPN), retired Major General Elvis Njoku, outlined the association’s readiness to work more closely with conventional security agencies.
He highlighted the importance of structured information-sharing, enhanced community surveillance, and technology-driven interventions.
“We cannot operate in silos anymore. Collaboration is the future of national security. Private security practitioners are positioned to complement the police, military and intelligence agencies, particularly at the grassroots where many threats first emerge,” Njoku said.
He added that ALPSPN is pioneering the deployment of drones, AI-assisted monitoring systems, and digital neighbourhood-watch platforms to improve early threat detection.
“Innovation is no longer optional. We are developing systems that enable real-time reporting and rapid escalation of incidents, which are essential to closing intelligence gaps exploited by criminals,” he noted.
On regulatory matters, Njoku urged government agencies to harmonise operational frameworks and expand opportunities for credible private security firms to integrate into both national and sub-national security networks.
The Secretary-General of ALPSPN, Dr Dauda Ageni, emphasised that improved collaboration would help unify Nigeria’s fragmented security architecture and build trust at the community level.
He explained that private security operatives are often the first point of contact in residential estates, business districts, and critical infrastructure, making them crucial for early detection and rapid response.
“Our operatives interact with citizens daily. We gather firsthand observations that can greatly assist security agencies if there is a seamless channel for coordination.Enhanced collaboration means faster response, better prevention and a safer environment for Nigerians,” Ageni said.
He also stressed that ALPSPN is intensifying training and raising professional standards to ensure that private security personnel have the skills and discipline required to support national security operations.
“We are investing in capacity-building, technology adoption and ethical practices. Security is a shared responsibility, and ALPSPN is committed to playing its part fully and professionally,” he said.
Both officials concluded by reaffirming the association’s readiness to partner with government institutions, security agencies, communities, and technology providers to innovate, collaborate and contribute to a more secure Nigeria.
Linus Aleke
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