Nigeria, South Africa Renew Security Cooperation to Protect Africa’s Stability
The Federal Government has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to working closely with South Africa to strengthen defence and security cooperation as part of efforts to safeguard regional peace and stability on the African continent.
This was the focus of the 6th Nigeria–South Africa Bi-National Commission Defence and Security Committee Meeting, which opened today in Abuja.
The five-day meeting provides a structured platform for the two African giants to deepen bilateral ties, review progress, and chart strategies for emerging security challenges.
In his welcome address, the Acting Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Dr. Sunday Attah, described the Committee as a “key working group” of the Bi-National Commission that plays a central role in enhancing security cooperation. He recalled that previous sessions, particularly the 5th meeting held in Johannesburg, laid a solid foundation for ongoing collaboration in areas such as counterterrorism, maritime security, peace support operations, and defence training.
“As two leading nations on the African continent, Nigeria and South Africa share a responsibility to safeguard regional peace, stability, and security,” Dr. Attah said. “Our partnership remains a strong pillar of African solidarity, rooted in mutual respect and a vision for a secure continent.”
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He further highlighted existing frameworks, including the Police Agreement (2001) and the Defence Cooperation Agreement (2013), which have continued to facilitate joint operations, capacity-building initiatives, and intelligence sharing.
According to him, the Abuja meeting will build on these achievements while also exploring innovative ways to respond to new threats such as cyber warfare and transnational crimes.
Leader of the South African delegation, Mr. Simeon Dumisani Dladla, echoed similar sentiments, noting that the engagement will reinforce bilateral defence cooperation between the two countries. He pointed out that the talks will expand exchange of training opportunities, strengthen intelligence sharing, and promote collaboration within the defence industry.
The meeting brought together representatives from the South African delegation, relevant Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), as well as key Nigerian security stakeholders. Over the course of the deliberations, participants are expected to focus on practical outcomes that will consolidate cooperation and ensure both countries remain at the forefront of safeguarding Africa’s collective security.
The Abuja session marks another significant step in the long-standing Nigeria–South Africa partnership, with both nations reaffirming their shared resolve to not only address immediate threats but also lay the groundwork for sustainable peace and development across the continent.
By PRNigeria
