The Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, on Monday attended the opening ceremony of the 2024 Chief of Defence Intelligence Annual Conference, held at the Conference Hall of the New NAOWA School Events Hall in Abuja.
Scheduled to run from 11 to 15 November, the event brings together Nigeria’s leading defence intelligence experts to discuss and strategize on the evolving role of technology in enhancing national and regional security.
In his address, the Minister underscored the importance of the conference’s theme, “Exploring the Role of Technology in Strengthening National and Regional Security.”
He acknowledged the challenges posed by the rapid evolution of technology in a complex security landscape and emphasized the critical role of technology as a “force multiplier” in national defence, the minister noted,
“As we navigate an increasingly complex security environment, technology offers us both opportunities and challenges. For any nation’s defence strategy to succeed, it must integrate technology into every facet of its security apparatus.”
The Minister highlighted the evolving challenges Nigeria faces in maintaining security and stability.
He recognized the contributions of Nigeria’s Defence Attachés, state intelligence officers, and diplomats in addressing both internal and external threats.
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“Intelligence remains vital to our security strategy. It equips our civilian and military leaders with the situational awareness needed to protect our citizens and safeguard our national interests,” he stated.
Dr. Matawalle also encouraged the Defence Attachés and Advisers to approach their roles with heightened ethical responsibility, particularly in their international engagements.
He urged them to utilize technology within the bounds of international law to foster diplomatic relations and safeguard Nigeria’s sovereignty.
“We must leverage technology ethically and strategically in our diplomatic engagements to ensure Nigeria’s security and stability on both national and regional fronts,” he said.
Furthermore, Dr. Matawalle called upon all conference participants to re-dedicate themselves to serving Nigeria with excellence.
He urged them to remain vigilant and to consider global, regional, and national dynamics in their efforts to represent the Defence Intelligence Agency, the Ministry of Defence, and Nigeria.
Dr. Matawalle expressed his hope that the conference would produce actionable insights for enhancing Nigeria’s national security and defence posture.
He extended his best wishes to all attendees for productive discussions.
The Minister concluded by welcoming the participants and wishing them fruitful deliberations.
