Over 2,000 Nigerian military officers have received specialized training in various Pakistani military institutions, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Lt.-Gen. Christopher Musa revealed on Thursday.
He said the training forms part of a growing defence partnership between Nigeria and Pakistan, aimed at boosting Nigeria’s operational capacity in the ongoing battle against terrorism and insurgency.
Gen. Musa disclosed this during a courtesy visit by the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee of Pakistan, Gen. Shahir Shamsad, at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja.
According to a statement by the Director of Defence Information, Brig.-Gen. Tukur Gusau, the CDS highlighted key areas of collaboration, including Special Forces training, veteran affairs management, border security, and intelligence sharing.
“These collaborative efforts have so far ensured the training of over 2,000 officers in various Pakistani military institutions,” Gen. Musa stated.
He stated that Nigeria would continue to deepen military cooperation with Pakistan to enhance its defence strategy and response to insecurity.
In response, Gen. Shahir Shamsad praised the Nigerian Armed Forces for their resilience and successes in tackling terrorism and insecurity.
He acknowledged the cultural and religious ties between both nations, noting their shared experiences in counterinsurgency.
He also described Nigeria as a “giant leader” in Africa, stressing its geo-strategic importance to Pakistan and the value of strengthening bilateral military relations.