MOGADISHU (SD) – In an emergency session today, Somalia’s Council of Ministers approved the appointment of Mahad Mohamed Salad as the new Director of the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA), marking a significant leadership change in the country’s security apparatus. The newly appointed intelligence chief brings substantial experience to the role, having previously served as NISA Director in 2022, as a Member of Parliament, a Government Minister, and a Senior security official.

The Cabinet meeting, chaired by Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre, formally endorsed Salad’s nomination while expressing appreciation for the outgoing director Abdullahi Mohamed Ali’s service during his tenure.

This leadership transition comes at a critical juncture for Somalia as the government Intensifies counterterrorism operations against al-Shabaab, prepares for planned elections, Works to stabilize recently liberated territories faces growing political tensions between federal and state leaders.

Analysts view Salad’s return to the intelligence helm as a strategic move, given his deep institutional knowledge of NISA operations, close working relationship with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, proven track record in security management, political influence within Villa Somalia circles.

The appointment follows the recent dismissal of former director Abdullahi Mohamed Ali (widely known as Sanbaloolshe), who had held the position since 2022.

Security experts suggest this reshuffle aims to strengthen counterterrorism coordination, improve intelligence gathering capabilities, enhance inter-agency cooperation, and address security gaps in ongoing operations.

As Somalia enters a crucial phase in its state-building process, the new NISA leadership will face immediate challenges, including disrupting al-Shabaab financing networks, preventing insurgent attacks in urban centers, and supporting stabilization efforts in newly recovered regions.

The Federal Government has assured continued international cooperation in security sector reforms while emphasizing the need for Somali-led solutions to the country’s complex security challenges.