Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Matawalle, is seeking for the strengthening of bilateral relations with the United States (U.S.) in the fight against terrorism and other security challenges.
Matawalle, who is on an official visit to the U.S., said Nigeria would welcome more support to enable it degrade terrorists and other criminal elements operating in the country.
According to a statement by Mr Henshaw Ogubike, Director, Press and Public Relations of Ministry of Defence which was released on Thursday in Abuja, the Minister met with Congresswoman Betty McCollum and several other members of the U.S. Congress at the Capitol.
At the meetings, Matawalle highlighted the significance of the longstanding friendship between both countries, reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to eradicating terrorism.
He added that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was determined to collaborate with friendly nations to make Nigeria more secure for all.
Matawalle, therefore, said that collaboration between the two countries would boost Nigeria’s capabilities in addressing pressing security challenges, including terrorism.
In her response, McCollum who is the leader of the U.S. House Committee on Appropriation for Defence, expressed the unwavering willingness and commitment of the U.S. in supporting Nigeria to combat terrorism and other security threats.
She said this would be through intelligence and information sharing, training of personnel and military hardware production.
The Congresswoman said the discussions on collaborations between the two countries underscored the shared commitment of both nations to fostering regional and global security.
She added that the meeting was a pivotal moment in reinforcing diplomatic ties and collaborative efforts between Nigeria and the US.
According to her, the strengthening of the partnership would contribute significantly to the stability of Nigeria.
(NAN)