By Victor Akaa.
The Nigerian Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa and his Nigerien counterpart, General Moussa Salaou Barmou, convened in Niamey, Republic of Niger, on August 28, 2024, to fortify the bilateral relationship between Nigeria and Niger.
Director Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau said the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed by the defence chiefs aimed at enhancing security cooperation and addressing mutual security challenges.
During the meeting, both parties emphasized the importance of sustained dialogue, collaboration, and strategic partnership in combating security threats. They recognized the devastating impact of small arms and light weapons proliferation on regional stability and agreed to intensify efforts to curb the illicit flow of these weapons.
They also reaffirmed their commitment to regional stability and security, with Nigeria reiterating its principle of good neighbourliness and Niger expressing readiness to resume active participation in security cooperation under the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF).
The meeting culminated in agreements to finalize cooperation modalities, establish a Nigerien advisory group to interface with its Nigerian counterpart and develop measures to strengthen bilateral relationships.
General Musa also paid a courtesy call to Nigerien Deputy Minister of National Defence, General Sani Kache.
This historic MOU signing marks a significant milestone in Nigeria-Niger security cooperation, paving the way for enhanced collaboration and a stronger partnership in addressing regional security challenges, Enugu Reporters gathered.
