COAS calls for strengthening defense cooperation between Nigeria and Denmark

COAS calls for strengthening defense cooperation between Nigeria and Denmark

From our journalist

Abuja (Core Reporters) – The Nigerian Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has called for greater defense cooperation between Nigeria and the Kingdom of Denmark to strengthen operational capabilities, intelligence sharing and technology-based responses to emerging security threats.

He made the call on Friday, October 16, 2026, while receiving the Danish Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency Jens Ole Bach Hansen, together with the Defense Attache, Lieutenant Colonel Henrik Laugesen, at the Army Headquarters, Abuja.

During the meeting, the COAS highlighted the importance of international strategic partnerships in strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture and promoting regional stability through coordinated military engagements and sustainable capability development. He noted that closer cooperation between the two countries would provide opportunities to improve military effectiveness and address evolving security challenges through the exchange of expertise, operational knowledge and best practices.

Shaibu also identified potential areas of collaboration that include modern tactical capabilities, force protection, border surveillance, professional military training and knowledge exchange. He said these areas of cooperation would improve operational effectiveness in the North-East and North-West theatres. The COAS also emphasized the need for a holistic approach to national security, encompassing well-equipped troops, institutional resilience and sustained investments in personnel well-being, rehabilitation and career development to maintain morale and combat readiness.

Previously, Ambassador Hansen expressed Denmark’s willingness to expand existing security cooperation with Nigeria beyond maritime initiatives in the Gulf of Guinea to include direct engagement with the Nigerian military. It identified tactical training, operational knowledge exchange and strategic capability development as areas for further collaboration. The Ambassador also commended the resilience and operational achievements of the Nigerian troops, stressing that security and stability remain essential for economic growth and sustainable development.

Additionally, Ambassador Hansen expressed Denmark’s condolences for the loss of serving military personnel and reaffirmed his country’s commitment to mutually beneficial defense cooperation with Nigeria. The visit provided both countries with the opportunity to explore areas of shared interest in military capability development, operational effectiveness and security cooperation in support of national and regional stability.