The Nigerian Army and its Turkish counterpart have made a joint commitment to enhance their bilateral relations through the Defence Industrial Corporations, with the aim of effectively combating terrorism. This announcement was made during a courtesy visit by the Turkish Ambassador to Nigeria, Hidayet Bayraktar, to the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, at the Army Headquarters in Abuja.
Ambassador Bayraktar highlighted the shared challenges of insecurity, particularly in relation to international terrorism, faced by both countries. He emphasized that by collaborating, their concerted efforts will undoubtedly curtail the activities of terrorists within their respective nations. Drawing from Turkey’s experience in counter-terrorism, he expressed Turkey’s willingness to partner with Nigeria in defense technology and the economy to effectively tackle terrorism and insurgency.
Recognizing the longstanding cordial relations between the Nigerian Army and Turkish Defense Industries, as well as other institutions, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff, expressed his gratitude. He specifically mentioned the collaboration in the acquisition of defense equipment and the repatriation of personnel for medical treatment in Turkey.
Lieutenant General Lagbaja highlighted that the Nigerian Army has recently received additional combat enablers to strengthen their ongoing operations. He expressed optimism that the partnership between the two countries would further reinforce the capabilities of their respective armies through intelligence sharing and operational experience.
