By Miriam Humbe
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, has reaffirmed the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening the long-standing defence partnership between Nigeria and the United States of America.
This was contained in a statement signed on Tuesday by the Director Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba.
The CDS made this known during a courtesy visit by the United States Assistant Secretary for African Affairs, Department of State, Mr Frank Garcia, to the Defence Headquarters, Abuja.
The Chief of Defence Staff was represented at the meeting by the Chief of Defence Policy and Plans, Air Vice Marshal Francis Edosa.
Speaking on behalf of the CDS, Air Vice Marshal Edosa warmly welcomed the visiting delegation and described the enduring relationship between Nigeria and the United States as one founded on mutual respect, shared democratic values and a common commitment to regional and global peace and security.
He acknowledged the United States’ continued support to Nigeria in the areas of military training, intelligence sharing, counterterrorism and institutional development.
The representative of the CDS noted that the evolving security landscape across Africa demands stronger international collaboration, stressing that strategic partnerships remain essential in addressing terrorism, violent extremism, transnational organised crime and other emerging security threats.
He expressed confidence that the visit would further deepen bilateral defence cooperation and promote greater collaboration in areas of mutual interest.
Air Vice Marshal Edosa further reiterated the commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to professional excellence, regional stability and sustained engagement in pursuit of lasting peace and security within Nigeria and the wider African continent.
The United States Assistant Secretary for African Affairs, Mr Frank Garcia, also expressed appreciation for the warm reception accorded his delegation.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the United States Government to strengthening its strategic relationship with Nigeria, recognising the country’s pivotal role in promoting peace, stability and security across West Africa and the African continent.
Mr Garcia commended the efforts of the Armed Forces of Nigeria in combating terrorism and other security challenges, while assuring the Defence Headquarters of the United States’ continued support through enhanced defence cooperation, security assistance and strategic dialogue.
The visit provided an opportunity for both sides to exchange views on prevailing regional security issues, deepen mutual understanding and explore additional avenues for defence collaboration in advancing shared security objectives.
