EU SDI GoG supports intelligence analysis and VIP close protection training in Côte d’Ivoire

EU military instructors from Spain delivered two specialised courses in the Abidjan area from 7 to 25 September 2026, supporting the development of intelligence analysis and close protection capabilities within Côte d’Ivoire’s armed forces.

The training activities took place within the framework of the European Union Security and Defence Initiative in support of West African countries of the Gulf of Guinea (EU SDI GoG). Delivered at the Naval Instruction Center and Akakro Training Center, the courses addressed distinct training needs, combining specialist knowledge with its application to the participants’ duties.

Analyst Intel Basics

At Naval Instruction Center, the Spanish team of instructors from the Intelligence Unit of the 12th Armored Brigade – Warrant Officer Andrés Tomás Galindo Rubio and Staff Sergeant Pedro Andrés Martín Hacar – delivered the “Analyst Intel Basics course” to 20 officers and non-commissioned officers of the Armed Forces of Côte d’Ivoire (FACI) specialising in intelligence.

The programme covered the foundations of military intelligence, including its principles, levels and disciplines, and the intelligence cycle, from direction and collection to processing and dissemination. Participants studied human, imagery, geospatial, open-source and technical intelligence, alongside the management of intelligence requirements and collection activities.

A central element of the course was the role of intelligence in operational planning and decision-making. Topics included mission analysis, assessment of the operational environment, terrain and weather analysis, and threat assessment. The programme also addressed intelligence preparation of the battlefield and the development and comparison of courses of action, highlighting the contribution of intelligence staff throughout the planning process.

The course aimed to consolidate participants’ analytical foundations and their ability to support commanders with relevant intelligence during the preparation, planning and conduct of operations.

VIP Close Protection

At Akakro training center, the Spanish team of instructors from the 1st Military Police Battalion of the Land Forces – led by Staff Sergeant Emilio José Chirivella Ferrer – delivered the “VIP Close Protection course” to 24 members of the Republican Guard who will undertake duties protecting and escorting authorities.

The programme focused on the knowledge and skills required to operate as part of a close protection team. It addressed team organisation and responsibilities, protection on foot, and the coordination of arrival and departure arrangements.

Training also covered vehicle preparation, protective driving, movements and transfers, as well as route and venue reconnaissance. These subjects were complemented by sessions on unarmed combat, contingency arrangements and responses to incidents.

Through classroom instruction and practical exercises, the course aimed to prepare participants to work as a coordinated team and apply protection procedures across different settings relevant to their future escort duties.

Cooperation through EU SDI GoG

These two training activities reflect Spain’s contribution to EU SDI GoG and its cooperation with Côte d’Ivoire. By addressing intelligence analysis and the protection of authorities as distinct areas of expertise, the courses supported the development of capabilities relevant to the responsibilities of the participating personnel, within the wider European commitment to security and stability in the Gulf of Guinea.