National Security Adviser [NSA] to the President, Major General Babagana Monguno, spoke on the appointment of the Director General of the National Intelligence Agency [NIA] on Friday. Ten highlights of what he said:
1. Appointment and tenure of the DG of NIA is the exclusive prerogative of the President.
2. The appointment of Ambassador Ahmed Rufa’i Abubakar as DG of NIA in 2018 was made in full compliance with the relevant law.
3. The allegation that National Security Adviser Major GeneralBabagana Monguno (rtd) told the National Assembly that he was not aware of Ambassador Abubakar’s appointment in 2018 was totally false.
4. A Federal High Court presided over by Justice Okon Abang had earlier dismissed a suit challenging the appointment of Ambassador Abubakar as DG of NIA.
5. NSA advised all stakeholders in the Security and Intelligence sector to disregard the unfortunate falsehood being peddled by shadowy groups.
6. He warned groups and individuals who use pseudonyms to stop violating the secrecy upon which the intelligence community functions by issuing false claims.
7. He said appropriate action is being taken to unmask those unscrupulous elements and bring them to justice.
8. He said the Intelligence Community is pleased with the work of Ambassador Abubakar since his appointment.
9. NSA Monguno also said he is satisfied with the level of consultations between his office and the DG in achieving the functions of NIA.
10. NSA said contrary to false claims, Ambassador Abubakar never failed a promotion exam and has consistently been an outstanding officer.
