Charlie Collins, United Kingdom’s Deputy Chief of the defence staff, has arrived in Maiduguri, Borno State, to support efforts to enhance security and stability in the region.
The British Defence Staff West Africa announced the visit on Tuesday.
It said the visit adding would provide an opportunity to witness UK-Nigeria defence cooperation firsthand.
“Welcome to Nigeria, Lt Gen Sir Charlie Collins KBE DSO, UK Deputy CDS (MSO),” the post read.
“In Maiduguri with @HQNigerianArmy colleagues, seeing UK-Nigeria defence cooperation first-hand and supporting Nigeria-led efforts to strengthen security and regional stability.”
The visit comes few months after President Bola Tinubu visited the UK where he said Nigeria’s partnership with the United Kingdom (UK) is essential for tackling terrorism in the Sahel.
Tinubu spoke during a state banquet held at St George’s Hall, Windsor Castle, organised in honour of his state visit to the UK in March.
Addressing the royal family, Tinubu reflected on ties between Nigeria and the UK spanning democratic norms, literature, and the diaspora community, which he described as “the strongest bridge between our two countries”.
He said his visit would strengthen bilateral relations and build “a future rooted in partnership, mutual respect, and common values”.
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.
“Despite these challenges, Nigeria approaches the future with hope and confidence.”
Source – Our Heritage
(vitalnewsngr.com)
