The strategic defence partnership between Nigeria and India received a significant boost on Tuesday when the Indian Defence Adviser (IDA) to Nigeria, Colonel Manoj Singh, paid a courtesy visit to the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, at the Army Headquarters, Abuja.

According to a statement issued on Tuesday by the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, the visit reaffirmed the commitment of both nations to strengthening bilateral military cooperation and advancing shared security interests.

Singh, while making his remarks, commended the Nigerian Army for its sustained efforts in tackling security challenges nationwide and expressed appreciation for the warm reception.

“He emphasised India’s willingness to broaden defence cooperation, expand training opportunities for Nigerian Army personnel, and deepen technical exchanges in critical areas of mutual benefit,” the statement said.

In his remarks, Shaibu stressed the importance of maintaining an enduring partnership with the Indian Armed Forces.

“He described India’s long-standing support in military training, capacity building, and defence development as invaluable, noting the need to further enhance collaboration in counter-terrorism operations, intelligence sharing, equipment support, and professional military education,” it said.

The statement noted that the visit featured the presentation of souvenirs to the Defence Adviser by the COAS as a symbol of friendship and continued cooperation, adding that Singh also signed the visitors’ book and participated in a group photograph.