Nigerian Army, Indonesia strengthen defence ties

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The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to deepening defence cooperation with the Indonesian military.

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In a statement issued by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, on X on Thursday, Shaibu stated this while receiving the Indonesian Defence Attaché to Nigeria, Colonel Aslam Setiawan, at Army Headquarters in Abuja.

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Shaibu described the longstanding relationship between the two countries as mutually beneficial, particularly in professional military education, exchange of operational experience, and participation in multinational exercises.

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He stressed that continuous military-to-military engagement is essential for building a professional, adaptable and combat-ready force.

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The Army Chief called for expanded cooperation in counterinsurgency operations, emerging technologies and other areas of mutual interest.

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He noted that greater exchange of expertise and technology would improve situational awareness, operational planning and overall battlefield effectiveness.

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He also highlighted the ongoing expansion of the Nigerian Army from eight to 12 divisions, stating that the development would require increased investment in infrastructure, training, technology and institutional support.

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Earlier, Setiawan reaffirmed Indonesia’s commitment to strengthening bilateral defence relations with Nigeria.

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He said professional exchanges and multinational exercises, including Exercise Super Garuda Shield, offer valuable opportunities to enhance interoperability and share operational experience.

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