By ZAKAA LAZARUS
The 6th session of the Nigeria–South Africa Bi‑National Commission Defence and Security Committee started today at the Nigeria Army Conference Centre and Suites, Asokoro, Abuja.
The five‑day meeting will provide a platform to strengthen bilateral cooperation in defence and security matters.
In his welcome address, the Acting Permanent Secretary Dr. Sunday Attah described the Committee as a key working group of the Bi‑National Commission that offers a structured mechanism for reviewing progress, addressing emerging security challenges, and advancing strategic initiatives.
While praising the 5th session held in Johannesburg, he said that it laid the foundation for the current deliberations. He reminded delegates of the Police Agreement (2001) and the Defence Cooperation Agreement (2013) which continue to facilitate bilateral exchanges, training, capacity‑building initiatives and joint operations. He emphasized the need to build on established achievements, particularly in counterterrorism, maritime security, peace support operations and responses to emerging security threats. “As two leading nations on the African continent, Nigeria and South Africa share a responsibility to safeguard regional peace, stability and security,” he said.
Furthermore, he said: “Our partnership remains a strong pillar of African solidarity, rooted in mutual respect and a vision for a secure continent.”
Mr. Simeon Dumisani Dladla, leader of the South African delegation, said the engagement will reinforce defence cooperation between the two countries, expand exchange of training opportunities and intelligence sharing, and promote defence industry collaboration.
The meeting is attended by members of the South African delegation, representatives from relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), and other stakeholders. Delegates will focus on practical outcomes to consolidate cooperation across defence and security sectors.
