In a bid to fortify national security, the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has called for the greater integration of advanced technology into military operations.
The Minister made this call during 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.
He stressed the vital importance of modernizing defence strategies and enhancing the nation’s capacity to confront emerging security threats.
Running from November 11 to 15, the conference brings together Nigeria’s foremost defence intelligence experts to deliberate on the evolving role of technology in bolstering both national and regional security.
In his address, the Minister highlighted the significance 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 within a complex security environment, underscoring the indispensable 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 emphasised the growing challenges Nigeria faces in ensuring security and stability.
He acknowledged the vital contributions of Nigeria’s Defence Attachés, state intelligence officers, and diplomats in tackling both internal and external threats.
“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.
Matawalle urged the Defence Attachés and Advisers to approach their roles with a heightened sense of ethical responsibility, especially during international engagements.
He stressed the importance of leveraging technology, within the confines of international law, to strengthen diplomatic relations and protect 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.
Matawalle urged all conference participants to reaffirm their commitment to serving Nigeria with excellence.
He emphasised the need for vigilance, encouraging them to consider global, regional, and national dynamics in their work representing the Defence Intelligence Agency, the Ministry of Defence, and Nigeria at large.
Matawalle expressed his hope that the conference would generate actionable insights to strengthen Nigeria’s national security and defence posture.
He also wished all attendees productive and meaningful discussions.
