…Assures Diplomats of Safety During Official Duties
By Kingsley Omonobi
The Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) has formally accredited Defence Advisers and Defence Attachés from the United Kingdom, Japan, Italy, Ghana and the Republic of Mali, urging them to strictly observe Nigeria’s diplomatic and security protocols while carrying out their official responsibilities.
Speaking at the accreditation ceremony in Abuja on Wednesday, the Chief of Defence Intelligence (CDI), Lt.-Gen. Emmanuel Akomaye Undiandeye, advised the newly accredited diplomats to adhere to established guidelines and due process in all engagements with Nigerian government institutions.
The ceremony formally authorises the Defence Advisers and Attachés to carry out their official duties within Nigeria.
“It is always a great honour and privilege for me to witness this important annual event in the professional lives of Defence Advisers and Defence Attachés deployed by our allied and friendly nations to serve in Nigeria,” Undiandeye said.
“The accreditation ceremony formally grants you the authority to carry out your responsibilities within the territory of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“I wish to reiterate the importance of adhering strictly to these guidelines and observing due process in all your engagements, particularly with Nigerian government institutions, ministries, departments and agencies.”
The CDI also assured the diplomats of their safety while serving in Nigeria, noting that adequate security arrangements would be provided for official travels once the DIA is notified in advance.
“Your safety during official travel is guaranteed, provided you notify the Defence Intelligence Agency in advance. This enables us to provide the necessary security arrangements and logistical support throughout your movements,” he said.
Undiandeye said the diplomats would receive accreditation guidelines detailing the procedures governing their official operations and interactions in Nigeria.
He urged them to see their assignments not only as diplomatic engagements but also as opportunities to experience Nigeria’s cultural diversity and hospitality.
“Beyond your diplomatic responsibilities, your assignment is also a cultural and social one. It offers you the opportunity to experience the rich cultural diversity, hospitality and traditions of the Nigerian people, and to see the country beyond the security issues that often dominate international headlines,” he said.
The CDI described Defence Advisers and Attachés as vital links in promoting defence cooperation, military training, exchange programmes, defence procurement and broader security collaboration between Nigeria and their respective countries.
He encouraged them to work towards deepening bilateral relations and to explore different parts of the country during their tour of duty.
Earlier, the Director of Foreign Liaison at the DIA, Maj.-Gen. Ojogbane Adegbe, said the ceremony marked the final stage of the accreditation process for the newly appointed Defence Advisers and Attachés.
He explained that although the officers had already undertaken some official activities pending accreditation, the ceremony conferred full authority to discharge their responsibilities in line with established procedures.
Adegbe assured the diplomats of the Agency’s support throughout their assignments but reminded them of the need to comply with accreditation requirements.
He said Defence Advisers and Attachés must notify the DIA before travelling outside Abuja or outside Nigeria and obtain the necessary clearance before undertaking such trips.
He also stressed that prior approval must be obtained through the DIA before visiting any Service Headquarters, military institution or designated government establishment.
“There have been instances in the past where Defence Advisers or Defence Attachés visited Service Headquarters without prior authorisation from the Agency. Such situations are inappropriate and should be avoided,” Adegbe said.
He noted that strict compliance with the procedures would prevent unnecessary delays or embarrassment at security checkpoints and ensure all official engagements are conducted in accordance with due process.
