The British Deputy Chief of the Defence Staff, Lt-Gen Charlie Collins, has arrived in Maiduguri, Borno State, for high-level engagements with Nigerian military officials aimed at deepening defence cooperation between both countries.
The engagements are focused on strengthening military collaboration and supporting Nigeria’s ongoing security operations.
According to the British military authority, the UK defence chief is in Maiduguri to meet with Nigerian Army officers and observe ongoing joint defence efforts between the two nations.
His visit highlights the growing military partnership between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, particularly in intelligence sharing, counter-terrorism support, training and operational cooperation.
The visit is also expected to further discussions around defence strategy, capacity building, and long-term security cooperation between Nigeria and the United Kingdom.
Tinubu also spoke of Nigeria’s role in stabilising the Sahel, a region plagued by jihadist insurgency. “Our West African region faces complex terrorism challenges with roots in the Sahel,” the president said.
“Nigeria carries an enormous responsibility to help safeguard regional stability. In confronting these threats, partnership with the United Kingdom remains essential, and I look forward to my meeting with Prime Minister Keir Starmer tomorrow.
