Nigeria, UK Deepen Defence Ties as Defence Minister Hosts National Security Adviser

Nigeria and the United Kingdom have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral defence and security cooperation as both countries seek enhanced collaboration to address emerging security challenges.

The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd), gave the assurance at the Ship House, Abuja, when he received the United Kingdom National Security Adviser (NSA), Jonathan Powell, and his delegation, who are in Nigeria for the 4th UK-Nigeria Security and Defence Partnership (SDP4) Dialogue.

General Musa said Nigeria remains committed to sustaining and expanding its strategic partnership with the UK, stressing the importance of closer cooperation in areas such as counter-terrorism, intelligence sharing, and promoting regional stability.

“Nigeria values its historic and strategic relationship with the United Kingdom,” the Minister stated, highlighting the need for continued collaboration to tackle evolving security threats.

During the high-level meeting, both sides agreed to review existing Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) between Nigeria and the UK, with the aim of modernising security frameworks, improving technical training, and strengthening capacity-building efforts for the Nigerian Armed Forces.

The meeting formed part of activities surrounding the two-day SDP4 Dialogue hosted by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) in Abuja.

The dialogue, co-led by Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and the UK NSA, Jonathan Powell, focused on setting a renewed agenda for security cooperation between both countries through 2026 and beyond.

The partnership is expected to further strengthen joint efforts in addressing terrorism, enhancing defence capabilities, and improving coordination on regional and international security matters.