Defence Ministry PS Visits DIA, Advocates Technology-Driven Intelligence Operations… Reaffirms Support
Oru Leonard
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Richard Pheelangwah, has called on the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) to intensify the adoption of modern technologies to effectively address Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.
Pheelangwah made the call during a familiarisation visit to the agency’s headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, as part of his tour of agencies under the ministry.
He commended the professionalism and dedication of DIA personnel in safeguarding the nation, noting that their contributions to intelligence gathering, sharing, and inter-agency collaboration have significantly strengthened efforts against terrorism, banditry, and other security threats.
The Permanent Secretary attributed these achievements to the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, while emphasizing the critical role of intelligence in national security planning.
He urged the agency to remain proactive by leveraging cutting-edge technologies and ensuring continuous capacity building for its workforce. According to him, prioritising staff welfare and training is essential to boosting morale and operational efficiency.
Pheelangwah also reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to strengthening the operational capabilities of the DIA to enable it to better serve the country.
In his response, the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Lt.-Gen. Emmanuel Parker Undiandeye, described the visit as an opportunity to highlight the interconnected roles within Nigeria’s intelligence community.
He stressed that collaboration among security agencies remains vital in tackling threats such as terrorism, extremism, kidnapping, and cybercrime.
Undiandeye explained that the DIA operates a proactive intelligence system designed to provide early warnings and neutralise potential threats before they escalate. He noted that the agency relies on a combination of human intelligence, technology, and strategic partnerships to stay ahead of adversaries.
Despite challenges such as limited funding, equipment shortages, and capacity constraints, the CDI highlighted several achievements, including reduced incidents of unintended targeting, fewer human rights concerns, and a decline in civilian casualties over the past two years.
He disclosed that more than 1,300 personnel have been trained in intelligence-related fields, while advancements in technology have significantly enhanced the agency’s preventive and proactive capabilities.
The defence intelligence chief, however, appealed for increased funding to support staff welfare at foreign missions, timely release of operational funds, and the acquisition of modern equipment.
Senior officials from the Ministry of Defence, the DIA, and principal staff officers were present at the meeting.
(MOD Press)
