The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Ambassador Gabriel Tanimu Aduda, has reiterated the Federal Government’s resolve to deepen military collaboration with the State of Israel.
This assurance came during a courtesy visit by the Israeli Ambassador to Nigeria, Michael Freeman, to the Ministry’s headquarters at Ship House, Abuja.
In the course of their engagement, both officials exchanged views on ways to strengthen defence partnerships, enhance mutual security strategies, and expand opportunities for advanced military training and capacity development for the Nigerian Armed Forces. The deliberations were disclosed in an official statement issued by Sani Datti on behalf of the Director of Information and Public Relations.
Ambassador Aduda underscored the pressing need to reinforce defence ties amidst the backdrop of emerging global security threats. He stressed the value of strategic collaboration, including joint operations, intelligence sharing, and efforts to modernize Nigeria’s military frameworks.
The meeting also featured discussions on finalizing a new bilateral defence agreement, which is expected to promote technical cooperation and drive innovation within Nigeria’s defence industry.
“The Ministry of Defence is in the process of reforming the Defence Industry corporation so as to achieve effective regulation of the sector,” he said.
“Soon we will have the regulatory arm of DICON to regulate and license participation in the defence industry, as well as the commercial arm that will enter into partnerships and collaborations to assemble or manufacture arms and ammunition, UAVs and armoured vehicles alongside reputable original Equipment Manufacturers globally”.
He added, “The Ministry will engage in strategic initiatives to replicate successful Israeli military cooperation frameworks in Nigeria, thereby enhancing our national defence architecture.”
In his remarks, Ambassador Freeman thanked the Ministry for the warm reception and emphasized the importance of the growing partnership as a meaningful stride toward advancing cutting-edge defence solutions.
He also extended an official invitation to Ambassador Aduda and his delegation to visit Israel, with the aim of deepening bilateral relations and exploring new avenues for strategic defence collaboration.
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