Nigeria and the US renew defense partnership to strengthen counter-terrorism and regional security

Nigeria and the United States have reaffirmed their commitment to expanding defense cooperation as the two countries intensify efforts to combat terrorism, violent extremism and other growing security threats in West Africa and the continent.

This new commitment was underscored during a courtesy visit by the United States Assistant Secretary for African Affairs, Mr. Frank Garcia, to Defense Headquarters in Abuja, where discussions focused on strengthening bilateral military collaboration and addressing emerging regional security challenges.

The development was revealed in a statement issued by the Director of Defense Information, Major General Samaila Uba, on Tuesday.

Speaking at the meeting, the Chief of Defense Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, who was represented by the Chief of Defense Policy and Plans, Air Chief Marshal Francis Edosa, described the long-term defense relationship between Nigeria and the United States as one founded on mutual respect, democratic ideals, and a shared commitment to maintaining peace and stability.

Oluyede acknowledged the continued support the United States provides to Nigeria in important areas such as military training, intelligence sharing, counter-terrorism operations, and institutional capacity building.

He emphasized that the changing security landscape in Africa demands stronger international collaboration to effectively address terrorism, violent extremism, transnational organized crime and other emerging threats.

The Defense Minister expressed optimism that Garcia’s visit will further strengthen military cooperation between the two countries and open new opportunities for collaboration in areas of mutual strategic interest.

According to him, the Nigerian Armed Forces remain committed to professionalism, regional stability and continued engagement aimed at promoting lasting peace and security both in Nigeria and across the African continent.

In his remarks, Garcia appreciated Defense Headquarters for its warm welcome and reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to deepening its strategic partnership with Nigeria.

He acknowledged Nigeria’s leadership role in advancing peace, stability and security in West Africa and the wider African region.

The US official also praised the Nigerian Armed Forces for their continued efforts in confronting terrorism and other security challenges.

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Garcia assured Nigerian military authorities of continued American support through expanded defense cooperation, increased security assistance, and continued strategic dialogue.

This engagement also provides an opportunity for both delegations to review existing regional security issues and explore additional opportunities for collaboration to achieve shared security goals.