ABUJA, Nigeria – The U.S. Africa Command director of intelligence engaged with Nigerian intelligence officials and presided over the graduation of an all-female intelligence course during a multi-day trip, Dec. 18-21.

“Intelligence is a force multiplier, and this training builds a common foundation to drive regional intelligence capability that is critical to defeat violent extremists,” said U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Heidi Berg during remarks to nearly 20 female graduates. “The network these women have established is critical to their professional development, as well as a support structure as they continue their careers.”

The month-long course included West African female intelligence officers, non-commissioned officers, and civilians from Cameroon, Chad, Niger, Nigeria, Mali, and Senegal. The training was held as the second iteration of a two-part regional all-female intelligence course, with the first taking place in Tunisia in October. The course is designed to build a cadre of intelligence professionals using a common framework and terminology to enable multinational coordination in shared missions.

“We commend our Nigerian partners on the successful completion of the all-female intermediate Intelligence Course,” said Breanna Green, deputy political counselor of the U.S. Mission to Nigeria. “This is yet another sign of Nigeria’s leadership role on the African continent.”

During the visit, Berg also sat down with the Nigerian Defense Intelligence Agency officials with the goal of enhancing U.S. and Nigerian intelligence sharing, as well as building regional intelligence capability.

“I want to thank our Nigerian partners – with whom we share a long-standing and well-established relationship – for stepping-up and hosting this training event,” Berg said. “It is a true testament to Nigeria’s role as a strong leader in Africa, committed to provide security, adhere to the rule of law, provide good governance, and promote economic prosperity.”

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