By Matthew Abi
#TrackNigeria- In an attempt to boost the operations of the armed forces in Nigeria, Pakistani Military has pledged cooperation with the Nigerian military towards combatting insurgency and enhancing brotherly cooperation between the two armed forces.
Maj.Gen. Mohammed Shafiq, the director general foreign cooperation of Pakistan and leader of the delegation said this Tuesday at the Nigerian – Pakistan Staff talk at the Defence Headquarters Abuja.
According to him, Pakistan and its armed forces greatly value the relationship with Nigeria and it’s people, especially the defense collaboration is unparalleled in the African continent.
” It is heartening to note that we have developed wide – ranging defense cooperation with Nigeria armed force which is focusing on training courses, joint exercises, intelligence, counter terrorism, defense industrial collaboration and high level reciprocal visits.
Also speaking, Maj.Gen Bamidele Ogunkale, Defense Director General Industries Cooperation, Nigeria and Pakistan are members of the developing ( D – 8 ) Nations , and there has been exchange of top military/ political visits including those between defense Ministers as well as high ranking military officials to enhance defense collaboration.
” Nigeria and Pakistan signed a Bilateral Agreement on Military cooperation in 2010, the agreement emphasized on Military training and Education, Sending observers for military maneuver and exercises;
Maj. Gen Bamidele gave the highlights of the first round Nigeria – Pakistan Staff talk 3years ago at the Joint Staff Headquarters ( JSHQ), Chaklala, Islamabad, Pakistan.
According to him, the first round of Nigeria – Pakistan talk deliberated on training cooperation, counter terrorism cooperation, invitation for participation in professional Military Competition.
” Some offers were made to the Armed forces of Nigeria; Life extension program and general overhaul of F-7 NI Aircraft, Repair/ overhaul of 14 C-130 Aircraft propeller assemblies, Maintenance of Air Defense radars, Installation of special flight instrument display unit on NAF aircraft.
Also cooperation in military production were exploited in area of Technical cooperation with the Pakistan Ordinance Factory ( POF) and other Pakistan defence related industries, Development of telecom products in Nigeria, collaboration and transfer of technology and building capacity.
He added that the latest round of Staff Talk would assist Nigeria strategize on ways to maintain peace within especially in the troubled North East region and cordial friendly relations with our immediate neighbours and with the world at large.
