Germany hails Nigeria’s leadership role in West African security

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Germany has described Nigeria as an anchor of stability in West Africa, commending its leadership role in promoting regional peace and security.

The German Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Stefan Rossel, gave the commendation on Wednesday in Abuja, during a courtesy visit to the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Olufemi Oluyede.

The Director, Defence Information, Maj.-Gen. Samaila Uba, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja.

Rossel described Nigeria as a valued partner of Germany and reaffirmed his country’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations, particularly in defence and security.

He said sustained cooperation between both countries would create opportunities for mutually beneficial projects and initiatives.

The visit also provided an opportunity for the German Technical Advisory Group (G-TAG) to brief the CDS on its ongoing training support to the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN).

In his response, Oluyede appreciated the German Government for its continued partnership and support towards strengthening Nigeria’s military capacity.

He particularly acknowledged G-TAG’s contributions to the development of the Mechatronics School, Combat Tactical Care Training and Counter-Improvised Explosive Devices Training.

The CDS said the initiatives, alongside other capacity-building programmes and material support, had contributed to enhancing the professional competence and operational capacity of the armed forces.

He called for sustained and expanded defence cooperation, especially in specialised military training and professional development.

Oluyede also sought increased opportunities for strategic and advanced courses for officers and soldiers to strengthen their professional competencies and operational effectiveness.

He assured the German envoy of the armed forces readiness to consolidate the existing partnership and explore additional areas of cooperation.

The CDS said stronger collaboration would support efforts to address evolving security challenges and advance the shared defence and security interests of both countries. (NAN)