Nigeria, Burundi deepen military cooperation against terrorism
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Nigeria and Burundi aim to strengthen defense cooperation to combat terrorism and transnational security threats across Africa.
- The Nigerian Army and Burundi's Ambassador discussed enhanced training, capacity development, and personnel exchange programs.
- Both nations emphasized the importance of sustained military engagement and strategic communication to foster bilateral relations and regional security.
The Nigerian Army is committed to deepening defense cooperation with Burundi to jointly combat terrorism, violent extremism, and other transnational security threats affecting Africa. This commitment was reaffirmed by the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, during a meeting with Burundi's Ambassador to Nigeria, Edouard Nduwimana, at the Army Headquarters in Abuja.
General Shaibu highlighted that Nigeria and Burundi share common African values, mutual respect, and a joint commitment to continental peace and security. He expressed the Nigerian Army's intent to expand military cooperation through improved training opportunities, institutional capacity building, personnel exchange programs, and strategic exposure visits. He also noted that sustained collaboration in military education, sharing operational experiences, and engaging in regional security initiatives are crucial for addressing current security challenges.
Nigeria and Burundi are long-standing partners bound by shared African values, mutual respect and a common commitment to continental peace and security.
Ambassador Nduwimana conveyed greetings from Burundi's President, General รvariste Ndayishimiye, and commended the Nigerian Army for its professionalism and significant contributions to regional peace and security, particularly in counter-terrorism efforts. He requested greater access for Burundian military personnel to Nigerian military institutions via scholarships and specialized training. The ambassador also advocated for expanded instructor exchange programs, joint military exercises, and closer collaboration in peace support operations and counter-terrorism initiatives.
The Nigerian Army has demonstrated professionalism and made invaluable contributions to regional peace, counter-terrorism efforts and security across Africa.
Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.