FG Seeks Collaboration with Pakistan to Boost Defence Capabilities
The Federal Government has expressed its commitment to deepening defence cooperation with the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, drawing inspiration from the country’s cost-effective and home-grown counter-terrorism strategies to strengthening Nigeria’s national security architecture.
This was made known on Friday by the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, during a strategic meeting with a high-level Pakistani military delegation led by General Shahir Shamsad at the Ministry of Defence headquarters, Ship House, Abuja.
Minister Badaru praised Pakistan’s efforts in combating terrorism, especially the deployment of indigenous technology such as drones and improvised explosive device (IED) neutralization techniques, which he described as not only innovative but also financially prudent.
According to him, Nigeria stands to gain immensely by adapting similar approaches in its ongoing fight against insurgency and internal security threats.
“The history of cooperation between Nigeria and Pakistan provides a solid foundation for expanding collaboration in the defence sector,” Badaru noted.
“We must engage and elevate our relationship. I advocate for partnerships without strings or coercion. Pakistan has effectively addressed the challenges of terrorism using local technology and affordable drones.”
Read Also:
He emphasized that both countries share common security challenges and strategic interests, which create fertile ground for bilateral cooperation.
The focus, he added, would be on critical areas such as drone technology and the revitalization of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), with the aim of boosting local production and technological innovation in military hardware.
On his part, General Shahir Shamsad commended Nigeria’s progress in domestic military production, particularly the efforts of DICON, and described Nigeria as a “strategic ally” in Africa with significant geo-political influence. He expressed optimism that stronger defence ties would yield mutual benefits and foster a more secure and technologically advanced partnership.
“This visit opens a new chapter in Nigeria-Pakistan defence relations,” General Shamsad said. “We recognize the capabilities Nigeria possesses, and we are confident that both our nations can work closely to achieve shared security goals.”
The meeting is seen as a significant step towards enhancing Nigeria’s military capacity, particularly in asymmetric warfare, through collaboration with nations that have practical experience and results in tackling similar security challenges.
The Defence Ministry says discussions will continue in the coming months, with working groups expected to outline frameworks for joint training, equipment development, and knowledge exchange.
By PRNigeria
