The Nigerian Army and its Turkish counterpart have pledged to strengthen bilateral relations through the Defence Industrial Corporations of both countries to tackle terrorism.

The commitment was disclosed on Thursday when the Turkish Ambassador to Nigeria, Hidayet Bayraktar, paid a courtesy visit to the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, at the Army Headquarters, Abuja.

This is contained in a statement by army spokesperson, Brig.-Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, on Thursday in Abuja.

The Turkish Ambassador said Nigeria and Turkey were confronted with insecurity, especially international terrorism, adding that the two countries had much to share.

Mr Bayraktar said the collaboration of both countries would undoubtedly curtail the activities of terrorists in their respective countries.

He said Turkey was set to partner with Nigeria in defence technology and economy to tackle terrorism and insurgency.

On his part, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) appreciated the existing cordial relations between the Nigerian Army and the Turkish Defence Industries and other establishments, especially in acquiring defence equipment and evacuating personnel on medical treatment in Turkiye.

Mr Lagbaja said the Nigerian Army recently received combat enablers to enhance its operations.

He expressed optimism that the relationship between the two countries would reinforce their armies’ capabilities through sharing intelligence and operational experience. 

(NAN)