WorldStage– The Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) on Wednesday accredited new Defence Advisers and Attachés from five countries, assuring them of adequate safety and support throughout their diplomatic assignments in Nigeria.
The accredited countries and the Defence Attaches are the Republic of Ghana, Commodore Bright Jojo; Italian Republic, Col. Aduardo Di Biaso; Japan, Lt.-Col. Otsuji Nao; Republic of Mali, Col. Drissa Kone and the United Kingdom, Brig. Tom Harper.
In his remarks, the Chief of Defence Intelligence (CDI), Lt.-Gen. Emmanuel Undiandeye, said the accreditation formally authorised the officers to discharge their diplomatic responsibilities in Nigeria.
Undiandeye said the officers would receive accreditation guidelines outlining procedures governing their official engagements and interactions with Nigerian institutions.
He urged them to comply strictly with the guidelines and observe due process in all official dealings with government ministries, departments, agencies and military establishments.
The CDI assured the Defence Advisers and Attachés of their safety during official assignments, adding that the DIA must be notified ahead of any official travel.
According to him, advance notification will enable the agency provide necessary security arrangements and logistical support throughout their movements across the country.
Undiandeye urged the diplomats to experience Nigeria’s cultural diversity and hospitality, rather than judging the country solely through international security reports.
He described Defence Advisers and Attachés as vital links for strengthening defence cooperation, military training, exchange programmes, defence procurement and broader security collaboration.
The intelligence chief reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to expanding defence partnerships, promoting mutual understanding and deepening longstanding relations with friendly nations.
Earlier, the Director of Foreign Liaison, DIA, Maj.-Gen. Ojogbane Adegbe, said the ceremony marked the final stage of the accreditation process.
Adegbe said the accreditation granted full official recognition to Defence Advisers and Attachés to perform their responsibilities in line with established diplomatic procedures.
He assured the diplomats of the agency’s continued support while urging them to promptly report operational challenges requiring official intervention.
Adegbe reminded them to notify the agency before travelling outside Abuja or Nigeria and obtain necessary clearance before such movements.
He also directed them to seek DIA approval before visiting Service Headquarters, military formations and designated public institutions.
According to him, adherence to the procedures will prevent avoidable embarrassment and ensure official engagements comply with established protocols.
Speaking on behalf of the Corps of Defence Attachés, the Doyen and Morocco’s Defence Attaché, Col. Mohammed Abounasr, commended the DIA for organising the accreditation ceremony.
Abounasr praised the agency’s professionalism and support, describing it as the principal link between foreign defence missions and the Nigerian Armed Forces.He reaffirmed the commitment of the Corps to strengthening defence diplomacy, military cooperation and enduring friendship between Nigeria and their respective countries.
