Nigeria, India renew military ties as Army chiefs push for stronger security collaboration

Nigeria, India renew military ties as Army chiefs push for stronger security collaboration

By Auwal Ahmad Umar

The Nigerian Army and the Indian Armed Forces have restated their resolve to deepen military cooperation and strengthen joint security efforts between both nations.

On Tuesday, Col. Manoj Singh, India‘s Defence Adviser to Nigeria, visited Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), at the Army Headquarters in Abuja, demonstrating this renewed commitment.

In a statement issued by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Col. Appolonia Anele, the COAS underscored the strategic value of Nigeria’s long-standing defence relationship with India.

Shaibu highlighted India’s critical support over the years in the areas of training, capacity enhancement, and defence technology development, describing them as a partnership that has significantly contributed to Nigeria’s operational growth.

He called for even stronger collaboration in key fields such as counterterrorism, intelligence sharing, logistics support, and professional military education, noting that both countries stand to greatly benefit from a deepened alliance.

On his part, Col. Singh applauded the Nigerian Army for its persistent efforts in confronting evolving security threats across the country. He also expressed gratitude for the warm reception accorded him.

Singh reaffirmed India’s readiness to expand its support by widening training opportunities for Nigerian troops and strengthening technical exchange programs that will benefit both militaries.

He added that New Delhi remained committed to advancing a mutually beneficial defence partnership based on trust, cooperation, and shared security priorities.