By ZAKAA LAZARUS
The Nigerian Army and Bangladesh are deepening strategic defence cooperation to strengthen military capacity, professional military education, operational effectiveness and institutional partnerships in support of shared security interests.
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, stated this on Thursday, 8 October 2026, when he received the Bangladesh High Commissioner to Nigeria, His Excellency Miah Md Mainul Kabir, on a courtesy visit to Army Headquarters, Abuja.
This was contained in a statement by Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director Army Public Relations.
Lieutenant General Shaibu said the Nigerian Army is prepared to share operational experiences in counter-terrorism, counter-insurgency and drone warfare technology, as well as expertise in the humanitarian management of internally displaced persons.
He tasked relevant Army Headquarters Departments to coordinate with relevant defence authorities on joint training engagements and strategic frameworks aimed at strengthening the combat capabilities of the Nigerian Army.
The COAS further approved the establishment of the National Defence College Bangladesh Alumni Association to unite Nigerian military personnel who completed strategic courses in Bangladesh, noting that the Chief of Military Intelligence (Army) and the General Officer Commanding 1 Division are among the alumni of Bangladeshi military institutions.
He said the initiative will enhance collaboration and institutionalize training exchanges, technical capabilities and diplomatic cooperation between both armed forces.
In his response, High Commissioner Mainul Kabir expressed deep condolences to the Nigerian Army over the recent military aircraft crash in Ondo State and commended its contributions to United Nations peacekeeping operations.
He disclosed that 154 Nigerian officers have participated in Bangladesh National Defence College courses and advocated expanded institutional exchanges through Foreign Service Academy and military programmes to strengthen strategic leadership capacity and bilateral cooperation.
