The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has reaffirmed the commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to strengthening the country’s longstanding defence partnership with the United States.
The CDS gave the assurance while receiving the United States Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, Mr Frank Garcia, during a courtesy visit to the Defence Headquarters in Abuja.
Represented by the Chief of Defence Policy and Plans, Air Vice Marshal Francis Edosa, the CDS 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’ continued support for Nigeria in military training, intelligence sharing, counter-terrorism operations and institutional development.
According to the CDS, the evolving security landscape across Africa requires stronger international collaboration, stressing that strategic partnerships remain vital in tackling terrorism, violent extremism, transnational organised crime and other emerging security threats.
He expressed confidence that the visit would further strengthen bilateral defence cooperation and expand collaboration in areas of mutual interest.
The CDS also reaffirmed the commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to professional excellence, regional stability and sustained engagement in promoting lasting peace and security in Nigeria and across Africa.
In his remarks, Garcia reiterated the United States’ commitment to strengthening its strategic partnership with Nigeria, recognising the country’s key role in promoting peace, stability and security in West Africa and across the continent.
He commended the efforts of the Armed Forces of Nigeria in combating terrorism and other security challenges, assuring the Defence Headquarters of continued US support through enhanced defence cooperation, security assistance and strategic dialogue.
The meeting also provided an opportunity for both sides to exchange views on regional security issues, deepen mutual understanding and explore additional areas of defence collaboration in pursuit of shared security objectives.
