Concerned by the rising frequency of terrorist ambushes targeting operational bases, convoys, patrol teams, and logistics movements, the Defence Intelligence College (DIC) launched a Counter-Ambush Intelligence and Movement Security Course to counter the threat.

The course, organised in collaboration with Renown Consult Limited, drew participants from the military and other intelligence and security agencies. It aimed to equip participants with the requisite knowledge and practical skills needed to disrupt ambush plans and respond decisively when confronted.

Speaking at the course’s opening ceremony, the Chief of Defence Intelligence (CDI), Lieutenant General Emmanuel Undiandeye, said the Defence Intelligence Agency’s role remains central to national security, as intelligence provides the foundation for effective operations, enabling troops to anticipate threats, guide decisions, and protect national interests.

Represented by the Deputy Chief of Defence Intelligence, Air Vice Marshal Bala Rabiu Mamman, Lt.-Gen. Undiandeye said Nigeria faces complex and evolving security challenges, including insurgency, banditry, terrorism, kidnapping, and organised criminal networks, which are increasingly adaptive and coordinated, exploiting terrain, technology, and local vulnerabilities.

The CDI emphasised that, among these threats, ambushes have emerged as a particularly lethal tactic, inflicting maximum damage with minimal exposure.

He said, “The frequency of ambush incidents targeting operational bases, convoys, patrol teams, and logistical movements has become a matter of serious concern. These attacks are often meticulously planned, taking advantage of intelligence gaps, predictable movement patterns, and lapses in coordination with attendant devastating consequences.

“It is against this backdrop that this Course is relevant and indispensable. It focuses on intelligence-led detection, route analysis, convoy protection, and coordinated response mechanisms essential to equip participants with the requisite knowledge and practical skills needed to disrupt ambush plans and respond decisively when confronted.”

The CDI noted that the strategic importance of this training lies in its emphasis on prevention, coordination, and resilience.

“It promotes proactive intelligence gathering and analysis, strengthens inter-agency collaboration, and enhances the capacity of personnel to operate effectively under pressure.

“These are essential capabilities in today’s dynamic security environment,” he said.

The intelligence chief urged participants to recognise that the value of the course extends beyond individual competence, noting that they are expected to serve as force multipliers by translating the knowledge acquired into improved operational outcomes within their respective organisations.

He also encouraged them to approach the training with discipline, commitment, and openness, actively engage, share experiences, and challenge assumptions, stressing that “the threats we face are constantly evolving, and our responses must be equally adaptive.”

“Let me also emphasise the importance of professionalism, leadership, and ethical conduct. The trust of the public remains one of our most valuable assets.

“Your actions, both during and after this Course, must reflect integrity, accountability, and respect for the rule of law.

“Beyond technical proficiency, this training is an opportunity to cultivate leadership, reinforce ethical standards, and strengthen public confidence in our security institutions."

The CDI commended the Commandant of the Defence Intelligence College, Commodore Usman Bugaje, and organisers for the “laudable initiative,” and reaffirms his confidence in the course’s capacity to enhance national security outcomes.

He charged the participants to take full advantage of the opportunity and remain steadfast in “our collective mission of protecting our nation.” (The Nation)