From Molly Kilete, Abuja
Nigeria has moved to strengthen defence cooperation with Poland, particularly in border security and technology transfer, as part of efforts to improve its capacity to combat terrorism, insurgency and other emerging security threats.
Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, identified the two areas as critical to Nigeria’s ongoing counterinsurgency operations when he received the Polish Ambassador to Nigeria, Michał Cygan, at Defence Headquarters, Abuja.
Oluyede said Poland’s experience in border management and security could provide valuable lessons for Nigeria, which continues to confront terrorist activities, cross-border security challenges and other threats to national security.
According to a statement issued by the Director of Defence Information, Major-General Samaila Uba, the CDS stressed the need for both countries to move beyond diplomatic engagements and explore practical areas of defence cooperation that would directly support military operations.
He identified technology transfer as another priority, underscoring the importance of strengthening Nigeria’s defence capabilities through cooperation with countries possessing relevant expertise and experience.
Oluyede expressed the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s readiness to sustain engagement with Polish defence stakeholders towards developing mutually beneficial partnerships.
The proposed collaboration comes amid continuing efforts by Nigeria to strengthen its security architecture, particularly in addressing terrorism, insurgency and threats associated with the movement of armed groups across national borders.
Poland, which has considerable experience in border management and security operations, was identified by the CDS as a potential partner in improving Nigeria’s capabilities in these areas.
The Polish ambassador, Cygan, commended the professionalism, resilience and operational effectiveness of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, describing the country as a critical contributor to peace and stability in West Africa.
“Nigeria’s strategic position and sustained security engagements have continued to contribute significantly to peace and stability in the region,” he said.
Cygan noted that Nigeria’s geographical position and continued involvement in regional security operations made it an important partner in efforts to address security challenges extending beyond its borders.
He expressed confidence that both countries could deepen their defence relationship by sharing experiences and exploring additional areas of cooperation for mutual benefit.
The ambassador’s visit was part of a series of defence-related engagements aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between Nigeria and Poland.
Although both sides expressed willingness to expand cooperation, the statement did not disclose any specific agreement, implementation timetable or commitment covering the proposed technology transfer and border security collaboration.