CDS Reaffirms Nigeria-US Defence Partnership as American Diplomat Visits Defence Headquarters

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, describing the relationship as crucial to addressing evolving security challenges across Africa.

The assurance was given during a courtesy visit by the United States Assistant Secretary for African Affairs at the Department of State, Frank Garcia, to the Defence Headquarters in Abuja.

A statement by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, said the CDS was represented at the meeting by the Chief of Defence Policy and Plans, Air Vice Marshal Francis Edosa.

Speaking on behalf of General Oluyede, Air Vice Marshal Edosa welcomed the visiting delegation and described the Nigeria-US relationship as one built on mutual respect, shared democratic values and a common commitment to regional and global peace and security.

He acknowledged the United States' sustained support to Nigeria in key areas, including military training, intelligence sharing, counterterrorism operations and institutional development, noting that such assistance has strengthened the country's security architecture.

Edosa observed that the changing security environment across Africa requires stronger international cooperation, stressing that strategic partnerships remain vital in tackling terrorism, violent extremism, transnational organised crime and other emerging threats.

He expressed confidence that the visit would further deepen bilateral defence ties and enhance collaboration in areas of mutual interest, while reiterating the Armed Forces of Nigeria's commitment to professionalism, regional stability and sustained efforts toward lasting peace and security in Nigeria and across the African continent.

In his remarks, the United States Assistant Secretary for African Affairs, Frank Garcia, thanked the Defence Headquarters for the warm reception and reaffirmed Washington's commitment to strengthening its strategic partnership with Nigeria.

Garcia recognised Nigeria's pivotal role in promoting peace, stability and security in West Africa and across the continent, commending the Armed Forces of Nigeria for their efforts in combating terrorism and other security threats.

He assured the Defence Headquarters of continued US support through enhanced defence cooperation, security assistance and sustained strategic dialogue.

The meeting also provided an opportunity for both countries to exchange views on prevailing regional security issues, deepen mutual understanding and explore new areas of defence collaboration aimed at advancing shared security objectives.