Brig. Gen. Jean Paul Nyirubutama Kigali, Rwanda — President Paul Kagame has appointed new leadership in key security positions, naming Brigadier General Jean Paul Nyirubutama as Deputy Chief Security Advisor in the Office of the President and James Wizeye as Deputy Director General of the National Intelligence and Security Service (NISS). The appointments were announced following a Cabinet meeting on January 28, 2026, as part of ongoing restructuring of Rwanda's security apparatus. Brig. Gen. Jean Paul Nyirubutama brings extensive experience in intelligence and security operations. He previous

Brig. Gen. Jean Paul Nyirubutama

Kigali, Rwanda — President Paul Kagame has appointed new leadership in key security positions, naming Brigadier General Jean Paul Nyirubutama as Deputy Chief Security Advisor in the Office of the President and James Wizeye as Deputy Director General of the National Intelligence and Security Service (NISS).

The appointments were announced following a Cabinet meeting on January 28, 2026, as part of ongoing restructuring of Rwanda's security apparatus.

Brig. Gen. Jean Paul Nyirubutama brings extensive experience in intelligence and security operations. He previously served in various senior positions including Deputy Secretary General of NISS and Director General of External Intelligence and Security. Before joining the intelligence service, he held roles at RwandAir as Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Chief Operations Officer, and served as a senior advisor at Rwanda's Embassy in South Africa.

Nyirubutama is a distinguished graduate of the RDF Command and Staff College, where he emerged as the overall best student. His promotion to the presidency reflects his proven track record in strategic security management.

James Wizeye

James Wizeye's appointment as Deputy Director General of NISS places him in a critical position within Rwanda's intelligence framework, where he will support the Secretary General in coordinating internal and external intelligence operations.

The appointments come as Rwanda continues to navigate complex regional security challenges and strengthen its intelligence capabilities. NISS plays a central role in protecting national security interests and advising the president and government on strategic security matters.

Both positions require close coordination with various security agencies including the Rwanda Defence Force and Rwanda National Police to ensure comprehensive national security coverage.

A little more informed. A little more connected.