Badaru Abubakar, Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, has urged the country’s security agencies to fully integrate intelligence and operational strategies to effectively address emerging security challenges.
The minister made the call on Monday at the 2025 Chief of Defence Intelligence (CDI) Annual Conference, held at the Armed Forces Officers’ Mess in Asokoro, Abuja.
According to a statement issued by Ali Mati, media aide to the minister, the event brought together defence attachés, intelligence specialists, senior military officials, and international partners under the theme: “Multi-Source Intelligence and Innovation in a Changing National Security Ecosystem.”
Badaru, who represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s sovereignty through improved intelligence management.
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He warned that with threats such as terrorism, banditry, and cybercrime rapidly evolving, the country must adopt a “Seamless Intelligence–Operations Integration Framework” to stay ahead.
The minister highlighted recent advancements by the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), including the Joint Intelligence Fusion initiative and enhanced cyber-monitoring systems.
He described them as vital force multipliers for national security. He stressed that continuous training and capacity building remain central to improving Nigeria’s intelligence capability.
Outlining strategic priorities for the sector, Badaru emphasised real-time data sharing, strengthened regional cooperation—especially on cross-border intelligence and maritime security—and deeper inter-agency collaboration.
He encouraged participants to be bold and innovative in proposing solutions that deliver measurable impact, assuring them of government support under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
“Through vigilance and unity of purpose, we will strengthen Nigeria’s security foundations,” he said, commending the Chief of Defence Intelligence and his team for their commitment.
The conference continues with deliberations expected to shape future intelligence and security operations in the country, the statment noted.
