By Stella Odueme
Germany has commended Nigeria for its leadership role in promoting peace and security in West Africa, describing the country as an anchor of stability in the sub-region.
German Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Stefan Rossel, gave the commendation on Wednesday during a courtesy visit to the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja.
Rossel reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to strengthening its longstanding bilateral relationship with Nigeria, particularly in defence and security cooperation.
He noted that sustained collaboration between both countries would create opportunities for mutually beneficial projects and initiatives.
According to the the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, in a statement, the meeting also provided an opportunity for the German Technical Advisory Group (G-TAG) to brief the CDS on ongoing training support for the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN), including efforts to improve military professionalism and operational capacity.
Responding, Oluyede expressed appreciation to the German government for its continued partnership and support to the Nigerian military.
He specifically acknowledged G-TAG’s contributions to the development of the Mechatronics School, Combat Tactical Care Training and Counter-Improvised Explosive Devices Training, alongside other capacity-building programmes and material assistance.
The CDS stressed the need to sustain and expand the defence partnership, particularly in specialised military training and professional development.
He also called for increased opportunities for Nigerian military personnel to participate in strategic and advanced courses to strengthen their professional skills and operational effectiveness.
Oluyede assured the German envoy of the Armed Forces' readiness to explore additional areas of cooperation to address emerging security challenges and advance the shared interests of both countries.