Nigeria, Egypt Deepen Military Ties as Army Chief Seeks Advanced Training to Tackle Emerging Security Threats

The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigerian Army to strengthening defence cooperation with friendly nations, particularly in the area of advanced professional training to address evolving security challenges. 

The Army Chief made this known on Thursday, March 12, 2026, while receiving the Egyptian Defence Attaché to Nigeria, Colonel Mohammed Ibrahim, during a courtesy visit to the Army Headquarters in Abuja.

Shaibu described the long-standing military relationship between Nigeria and Egypt as mutually beneficial, noting that collaboration between both armies has remained a vital platform for enhancing operational capability and professional development. 

He stressed that sustained cooperation through advanced military courses, training exchanges, and professional education is essential for preparing personnel to confront modern security threats, including terrorism, insurgency, and transnational crimes.

According to the Army Chief, several officers of the Nigerian Army have benefited from specialised military training programmes in Egypt, adding that such exposure has played a significant role in improving the professional competence and operational readiness of the force.

He expressed the readiness of the Nigerian Army to expand the scope of the partnership to provide more training opportunities that will equip personnel with the knowledge and technical skills required to respond effectively to complex security situations.

Shaibu also emphasised the need to strengthen institutional linkages between both militaries through increased participation in strategic-level courses and professional programmes, including those conducted at the Nigerian Army War College.

He noted that deeper engagement would promote knowledge exchange, reinforce professional ties, and enhance the capacity of both countries to counter emerging threats.

The Army Chief further invited the Egyptian military to participate in the forthcoming Nigerian Army Day Celebration scheduled for July 2026, describing the event as an avenue to promote military diplomacy and strengthen bilateral relations.

He also called for expanded cooperation in new areas, particularly in aviation development and operational support systems, noting that such collaboration would improve technological advancement, operational readiness, and overall mission effectiveness of the Nigerian Army.

Earlier in his remarks, Colonel Ibrahim said his visit was aimed at reviewing the implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding signed between Nigeria and Egypt in 2024, adding that the agreement has recorded notable progress, especially in training cooperation.

He disclosed that preparations were ongoing for the next Military Committee Meeting between both countries, which is expected to take place in Cairo later this year.

The Egyptian Defence Attaché reaffirmed his country’s commitment to deepening military collaboration with Nigeria, particularly in advanced training, intelligence sharing, and other areas of defence cooperation aimed at tackling contemporary security threats affecting both nations.