Nigerian Military Committed to Enhancing Defence Cooperation in Africa – CDS

By Sumaila Ogbaje

Nigeria to Host Historic Africa Chiefs of Defence Summit

The Nigerian military has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening defence cooperation across Africa, according to Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Gen. Christopher Musa. This announcement came during the inauguration of a committee tasked with organizing the inaugural Africa Chiefs of Defence Summit, scheduled for June 18-19 in Abuja.

A Defining Moment for African Security

Gen. Musa described the upcoming summit as “a defining moment for Nigeria as a leading force in Africa’s defence and security landscape.” The event aims to foster stronger military ties and reinforce Nigeria’s leadership in continental military diplomacy.

“This summit has to be a grand and remarkable event, one befitting of Nigeria’s status as a continental giant,” the CDS emphasized. “It will bring together military leaders from across Africa, and we must ensure it reflects our nation’s excellence, strength, and organizational prowess.”

Committee Charged With Delivering Excellence

The CDS urged committee members to approach their task with exceptional diligence, stressing the need for innovative thinking and creative solutions. Key expectations include:

• Meticulous planning and execution to international standards
• Effective engagement with relevant agencies and stakeholders
• Establishment of robust communication and feedback mechanisms
• Proactive problem-solving to address potential challenges

Committee Chairman Responds

Retired Maj.-Gen. Olufemi Akinjobi, the committee chairman, praised the initiative as timely and significant. “It’s about time African defence chiefs begin to speak to themselves,” Akinjobi stated, pledging the committee’s full commitment to delivering an outstanding event.

About the Africa Chiefs of Defence Summit

This historic gathering, hosted by the Nigerian Armed Forces, will feature:

• Defence chiefs from across the African continent
• Defence industry experts and contractors
• Discussions on reshaping defence procurement and cooperation

The summit will operate under the theme: “Advancing Africa’s Security with Strategic Defence Procurement and Cooperation.”

Edited by Sadiya Hamza | Source: NAN