Nigeria, Bangladesh Deepen Naval Ties, Eye Shipbuilding, Technology Exchange
Nigeria and Bangladesh have moved to deepen naval and defence cooperation, with both countries exploring collaboration in maritime security, professional training, technology exchange, naval shipbuilding and defence-industrial development.
The High Commissioner of Bangladesh to Nigeria, His Excellency Miah Md Mainul Kabir, made this known during a high-level engagement with the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, where he reaffirmed Bangladesh’s commitment to strengthening bilateral defence relations.
A statement signed by Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, Director of Naval Information, Nigerian Navy on Wednesday, in Abuja.
Kabir emphasised the longstanding cordial relations between Nigeria and Bangladesh, stressing the need to translate the relationship into practical areas of cooperation, particularly in maritime security and defence.
Responding, Vice Admiral Abbas appreciated the Bangladeshi envoy and his delegation for the visit, highlighting Nigeria’s operational experience in combating piracy and other maritime crimes in the Gulf of Guinea.
The Chief of the Naval Staff said Nigeria’s experience provided opportunities for professional exchanges and shared learning between the two countries.
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He also stressed the importance of stronger cooperation among regional navies in tackling maritime threats that transcend national boundaries.
According to him, Nigeria’s participation in multinational maritime security initiatives, including its engagement with the Combined Maritime Task Force, could provide a framework for addressing maritime security challenges, including militancy along the maritime border between Myanmar and Bangladesh.
The discussions also focused on opportunities for professional training and exchanges, naval technology, shipbuilding and the development of indigenous defence industries.
The Nigerian Navy expressed interest in Bangladesh’s experience in garment manufacturing, identifying it as a potential area for knowledge sharing that could support local production of military uniforms.
The two sides also examined prospects for technical cooperation in naval shipbuilding as part of efforts to strengthen indigenous defence-industrial capabilities.
The engagement concluded with an invitation to the Chief of the Naval Staff to visit Bangladesh, an opportunity expected to further advance discussions on the areas of mutual interest.
The Nigerian Navy said the engagement underscored the importance of sustained cooperation with navies around the world to strengthen maritime security, develop professional and technical capacity, promote indigenous defence-industrial capabilities and advance mutually beneficial bilateral relations.
By PRNigeria
