A former Chief of Defence Intelligence has called for a community-driven approach to intelligence gathering, stressing that local communities have a crucial role to play in improving national security.

He said intelligence efforts would be more effective when security agencies work closely with communities to obtain timely and reliable information about emerging threats.

The former intelligence chief noted that residents often have valuable knowledge about suspicious movements, unfamiliar individuals and activities taking place within their communities.

He therefore urged security agencies to strengthen their relationships with local communities and create channels through which information can be shared safely and promptly.

He also emphasised the importance of protecting informants and building public confidence in security institutions, saying people would be more willing to provide information when they trust that their identities and safety would be protected.

According to him, effective intelligence gathering should go beyond relying solely on conventional security structures and incorporate information from people living in affected communities.

He maintained that stronger collaboration between security agencies and citizens would improve early warning systems and help prevent attacks before they occur.

The former intelligence chief urged stakeholders to prioritise community participation as part of broader efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s intelligence and security architecture.