By Tony Obiechina, Abuja
Partnership between Nigeria and Germany was renewed on Thursday as a high level Ministry of Defence officials led by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana met with the German Ambassador to Nigeria, Annette Günther, and were received by Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Allia at the Government House in Makurdi.
During the visit, Governor Allia led Dr. Kana and Ambassador Günther on a tour of the state-of-the-art facility at the Nigeria Army School of Military Engineers (NASME), where the Ambassador formally handed over the facility to the Nigerian government through the Ministry of Defence.
Dr. Kana who expressed his gratitude and pride in witnessing the deepening of the partnership between Nigeria and Germany, emphasized the importance of such collaboration for the security and well-being of the people.
He highlighted the longstanding relationship between the two countries, spanning decades of unwavering support and collaboration in defence and infrastructure.
The Permanent Secretary also announced the renewal and expansion of the partnership for the period 2024-2028, aiming to identify key areas for collaboration to ensure continued support for the development and security of Nigeria.
Dr. Kana praised the German government for establishing a state of the art prosthesis and rehabilitation centre at 44 Armed Forces Reference hospital, Kaduna where injured personnel get their lost limbs replaced promptly and at no cost, thus boosting troop morale and saving government huge foreign exchange.
Speaking at the meeting, Ambassador Günther commended the commitment of the German government in supporting Nigeria in various endeavors, including training personnel in identifying and managing improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
She noted Germany’s dedication to mutual progress and security, citing joint projects between the two ministries of Defence as examples of fruitful cooperation.
Governor Allia expressed his deep commitment to driving sustainable development and improving the livelihoods of the people of Benue State.
He outlined areas of potential collaboration with Germany, including investment and technical assistance, education and skills development, healthcare and infrastructure, security management, environmental conservation and climate change, cultural exchange and tourism, humanitarian development assistance, capacity building, institutional strengthening, and private sector engagement.
Governor Allia welcomed the German delegation, expressing hope for fruitful meetings and cooperation to advance the shared goals of peace, prosperity, and security.
He added that the partnership between the two countries holds great promise for both nations, and through continued collaboration and support.