Germany Reaffirms Defence Partnership With Nigeria, Hails Country’s Leadership in West Africa
Germany has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening defence and security cooperation with Nigeria, while recognising the country’s strategic contributions to maintaining peace and stability across West Africa.
The German Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Stefan Rossel, stated this on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, when he led a delegation on a courtesy visit to the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, at the Defence Headquarters, Abuja.
The Ambassador described Nigeria as an anchor of stability in the West African sub-region and a valued partner of Germany, noting that both countries had maintained a longstanding relationship built on mutual interests.
He expressed Germany’s determination to protect and deepen the bilateral ties, particularly through expanded collaboration in defence and security, adding that continued engagement would open up opportunities for mutually beneficial initiatives.
The meeting also featured a briefing by the German Technical Advisory Group (G-TAG) on its ongoing training support to the Armed Forces of Nigeria and the progress recorded in strengthening military capacity.
In his remarks, General Oluyede expressed gratitude to the German Government for its sustained support and contributions to the development of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
He highlighted the impact of G-TAG’s interventions in establishing the Mechatronics School and supporting Combat Tactical Care Training and Counter-Improvised Explosive Devices Training, alongside other military training programmes and material assistance.
The CDS called for broader defence cooperation, emphasising the importance of specialised training and professional development in preparing military personnel to tackle evolving security threats.
He further urged Germany to provide more opportunities for Nigerian officers and soldiers to attend strategic and advanced military courses, noting that such exposure would enhance their professional competence and operational effectiveness.
Oluyede also assured the German delegation that the Armed Forces of Nigeria remained committed to strengthening the existing partnership and identifying additional areas of cooperation in pursuit of shared security objectives.
The engagement highlights the growing importance of Nigeria-Germany defence relations and the commitment of both countries to military capacity development, regional peace and international security cooperation.
