The United Kingdom (UK) Deputy Chief of Defence Staff, Lt.-Gen. Sir Roly Walker has lauded the Nigerian Army for its significant role in maintaining peace and stability in Africa and the West African Subregion.
Director Army Public Relations, Maj.-Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, disclose in a statement that the defence chief gave the commendation today during his visit to the Army Headquarters, Abuja.
Walker appreciated Nigerian Army’s steadfast commitment to peacekeeping efforts across the continent, highlighting its pivotal role in addressing regional security challenges and the need for collaborative efforts to address persistent security concerns.
Speaking on the upcoming security and defence dialogue between the UK and Nigeria, Walker expressed the commitment of United Kingdom to strengthening partnership with the Nigeria Army and reaffirmed continued support for initiatives aimed at enhancing regional security and stability.
Responding, the Chief of Army Staff appreciated the harmonious working relationship between the two armies and the contribution of the British Military Advisory and Training Team (BMATT) which he said has been of immense assistance to the NA in the fight against terrorism and insurgency.
The Army Chief also acknowledged the supporting role of BMATT to the Nigerian Army, especially in the area of capacity development.
He noted that this has significantly upscaled the role of the Army in the fight against terrorism in Nigeria and the West African subregion.
The COAS pledged that the Nigerian Army would entrench its relationship with the UK and expand the frontiers for mutual cooperation in order to achieve shared security objectives.