By Iskilu Hakeem, Abuja

The Defence Intelligence College has introduced a specialised Counter Ambush Intelligence and Movement Security Course in response to the rising incidence of terrorist ambushes targeting military formations and operations.
The training, organised in collaboration with Renown Consult Limited, brought together participants from the armed forces and other intelligence and security agencies. It is designed to strengthen operational capacity through intelligence driven strategies, with a focus on detecting, preventing, and responding effectively to ambush threats.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Lieutenant General Emmanuel Undiandeye, emphasised the central role of intelligence in national security operations. Represented by Air Vice Marshal Bala Rabiu Mamman, he noted that intelligence remains critical in anticipating threats, guiding tactical decisions, and safeguarding national interests.
He observed that Nigeria continues to face complex and evolving security challenges, including insurgency, banditry, terrorism, kidnapping, and organised criminal networks. According to him, these threats have become increasingly coordinated, exploiting terrain, technology, and local vulnerabilities to carry out attacks.
The intelligence chief identified ambushes as a particularly deadly tactic, noting their frequency and the significant damage they inflict on operational bases, convoys, patrol teams, and logistics movements. He warned that such attacks are often carefully planned, taking advantage of intelligence gaps, predictable movement patterns, and lapses in inter agency coordination.
Undiandeye stated that the course is structured to address these vulnerabilities by enhancing intelligence gathering, route analysis, convoy protection, and coordinated response mechanisms. He added that the training underscores the importance of prevention, resilience, and collaboration among security agencies.
He urged participants to maximise the opportunity by applying the knowledge gained to improve operational outcomes within their respective organisations, stressing that they are expected to serve as force multipliers in the field.
The Chief of Defence Intelligence also highlighted the importance of professionalism, leadership, and ethical conduct, noting that public trust remains a critical asset in security operations. He reaffirmed confidence in the programme’s capacity to strengthen national security and charged participants to remain committed to the collective mission of protecting the country.