By Hosea Parah, Abuja
Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), recently met with the Spanish and South Korean Ambassadors to Nigeria at the Army Headquarters in Abuja. During the meetings, General Lagbaja expressed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to robust engagement and sustainable partnerships in promoting effective defense relations.
General Lagbaja commended Spain for its contributions to global peace and economic development, particularly through its support of the Multinational National Joint Task Force (MNJTF) in the Lake Chad region. He also expressed the Nigerian Army’s anticipation of positive interactions with the Spanish military in areas such as technological innovations and advancements.
The COAS highlighted the current presidency of the European Union by Spain and requested the Spanish Ambassador’s support in facilitating the EU’s assistance to the Nigerian Army in its ongoing efforts to combat terrorism and insurgency.
In his remarks, the Spanish Ambassador praised the Nigerian Army, along with other security agencies, for their sacrifices in protecting the Nigerian people. He emphasized Spain’s commitment to supporting the Armed Forces of Nigeria through bilateral engagement and defense cooperation.
Similarly, General Lagbaja acknowledged the existing cordial relations between the Nigerian Army and the South Korean defense forces, particularly in the area of transport logistics. He expressed optimism about sustaining the partnership and highlighted South Korea’s positive impact on Nigerian Army operations against terrorists and insurgents.
The South Korean Ambassador expressed admiration for the commitment of the Nigerian Armed Forces and the Federal Government in keeping the country united, despite its cultural diversity. He noted Korea’s progress in defense and security capabilities and expressed their intention to increase defense cooperation with the Nigeria Army.
These meetings signify the Nigerian Army’s efforts to strengthen defense relations with Spain and South Korea, foster international cooperation, and enhance its capabilities in tackling security challenges.