The Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (retd.), has called for increased investment in intelligence-led operations, advanced technology and stronger inter-agency collaboration to address Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.
Speaking through his Special Adviser on Foreign Relations, Air Commodore Steven Ogunmodede (retd.), at the third annual conference and awards ceremony of the Defence Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DECAN) in Abuja on Monday, Musa said military force alone could no longer effectively counter contemporary security threats.
The conference was themed, “Beyond Kinetic Warfare: Harnessing Technology and Intelligence-Led Operations for Nigeria’s National Security.”
Musa noted that terrorist groups, criminal networks and other hostile actors are increasingly exploiting technology, information systems, financial networks and institutional gaps to advance their activities, making it necessary for security agencies to adopt more sophisticated approaches.
He said the Armed Forces and other security agencies must combine combat operations with timely intelligence, technological capabilities, effective planning and closer institutional cooperation.
According to him, intelligence-led operations enable security agencies to identify threats early, understand their networks, anticipate their intentions and respond with precision before attacks occur.
He described technology as a critical force multiplier capable of enhancing surveillance, reconnaissance, communications and intelligence analysis, but stressed that its effectiveness depends on well-trained personnel, reliable systems and sound operational judgment.
“Technology is a force multiplier; it does not replace the human judgement, discipline and professional competence upon which military effectiveness ultimately depends,” he said.
The minister said the Ministry of Defence and the Armed Forces are implementing measures aimed at improving situational awareness, intelligence coordination and operational effectiveness.
He added, however, that investments in technology must produce tangible improvements in protecting lives, defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity and responding to emerging threats.
Musa also emphasised that no single security institution possesses all the capabilities or information required to address the country’s increasingly complex security environment, underscoring the need for sustained collaboration among security agencies.
On the role of the media, the minister said responsible journalism remains vital to public understanding, institutional accountability and confidence in the Armed Forces.
While acknowledging the occasional tension between the public’s right to information and the operational requirements of security agencies, he said both interests can coexist when handled responsibly.
He urged defence correspondents to balance the duty to inform the public with the need to protect sensitive operational information, warning that premature disclosure could jeopardise military operations, expose personnel to danger and threaten civilian lives.
Musa also cautioned against the publication of unverified reports, particularly those relating to ongoing military operations.
He noted that intelligence-led operations often take place away from public view and said the absence of visible military action should not be interpreted as inactivity, as successful intelligence efforts can prevent attacks before they occur.
The minister further called on security institutions to communicate information accurately, promptly and responsibly, within the limits imposed by operational considerations.
Musa thanked DECAN for naming him its Grand Patron and pledged to support a constructive partnership between the Ministry of Defence and the association based on mutual respect, professional responsibility and a shared commitment to Nigeria’s security and national interest.
