Defence Minister Urges Integrated Intelligence to Tackle Nigeria’s Evolving Security Threats

Nigeria’s Defence Minister, Badaru Abubakar, has called for a more integrated intelligence framework to counter emerging security threats, emphasizing innovation and inter-agency collaboration as key to safeguarding the nation.
Delivering the keynote address at the 2025 Chief of Defence Intelligence (CDI) Annual Conference in Abuja, Minister Abubakar urged security agencies to adopt a “Seamless Intelligence–Operations Integration Framework” to address terrorism, banditry, cybercrime, and other contemporary challenges. The conference, held at the Armed Forces Officers’ Mess in Asokoro under the theme “Multi-Source Intelligence and Innovation in a Changing National Security Ecosystem,” brought together Defence Attachés, intelligence experts, senior military officers, and international partners.
Speaking on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the Minister highlighted ongoing advancements by the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), including the Joint Intelligence Fusion Centre and enhanced cyber monitoring capabilities, describing them as critical “force multipliers” for national security. He stressed that the ultimate strength of intelligence lies in people, advocating continuous training and capacity building across the sector.
Minister Abubakar outlined strategic priorities including real-time data sharing, regional collaboration on cross-border and maritime security, and stronger inter-agency synergy. He urged participants to “think boldly and propose innovative solutions that deliver real impact,” assuring full government support for aligning intelligence operations with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which links security to economic development.
“Through vigilance and unity of purpose, we will strengthen Nigeria’s security foundations,” he declared, commending the Chief of Defence Intelligence and his team for their dedication and leadership.