Nigeria, US deepen defence ties to tackle terrorism, regional threats

Nigeria's Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has affirmed the nation's dedication to enhancing defense collaboration with the United States. This renewed commitment aims to jointly address pressing security challenges, including terrorism, violent extremism, and other evolving threats across the region.

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The Nigeria-U.S. defence relationship is one built on mutual respect, shared democratic values and a common commitment to regional and global peace.

General Oluyede conveyed this assurance during a courtesy visit from Mr. Frank Garcia, the United States Assistant Secretary for African Affairs, to the Defence Headquarters in Abuja. Represented by AVM Francis Edosa, Chief of Defence Policy and Plans, Oluyede described the Nigeria-U.S. defense relationship as robust, founded on mutual respect, shared democratic principles, and a collective pursuit of regional and global peace.

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Africa’s evolving security environment required stronger international partnerships to confront terrorism, violent extremism, transnational organised crime and other emerging threats.

He acknowledged the consistent support from the U.S. in critical areas such as military training, intelligence sharing, counter-terrorism operations, and institutional capacity building. Oluyede stressed that Africa's dynamic security landscape necessitates stronger international partnerships to effectively confront terrorism, transnational organized crime, and emerging threats.

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The United States’ commitment to strengthening its strategic partnership with Nigeria.

Assistant Secretary Garcia, in his remarks, thanked the Defence Headquarters for the warm reception and reiterated the U.S.'s commitment to bolstering its strategic partnership with Nigeria. He recognized Nigeria's vital role in fostering peace, stability, and security throughout West Africa and the broader African continent. Garcia commended the Nigerian Armed Forces for their ongoing efforts in combating terrorism and other security challenges, promising continued U.S. support through enhanced defense cooperation, security assistance, and sustained strategic dialogue. The meeting also served as a platform for both sides to discuss prevailing regional security issues and explore further avenues for defense collaboration to achieve shared security objectives.

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Nigeria’s pivotal role in promoting peace, stability and security across West Africa and the African continent.