NIGERIA AND U.S DEEPEN DEFENCE TIES TO TACKLE TERRORISM AND REGIONAL THREATS

The Chief of Defence Staff, OLUFEMI OLUYEDE, has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to deepening defence cooperation with the United States in addressing terrorism, violent extremism and other emerging security threats.

OLUYEDE, who was represented by the Chief of Defence Policy and Plans, FRANCIS EDOSA, gave the assurance during a meeting with the U.S Assistant Secretary for African Affairs, FRANK GARCIA, at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja.

The Chief of Defence Staff stated that the Nigeria-United States defence partnership is built on mutual respect, shared democratic values and a common commitment to regional and global peace, while acknowledging the continued support of the United States in military training, intelligence sharing, counter-terrorism operations and institutional capacity development.

In his remarks, GARCIA reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to expanding its strategic partnership with Nigeria and commended the Armed Forces of Nigeria for their role in combating terrorism and advancing peace, stability and security across West Africa.

GARCIA also assured Nigeria of sustained U S support through enhanced defence cooperation, security assistance and strategic dialogue, as both sides exchanged views on regional security challenges and explored further opportunities to strengthen defence collaboration in pursuit of shared security objectives.