Insecurity: Nigeria seeks more support from US on Intelligence Sharing

By victoria MALAGU

Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle and AFRICOM's Garrick Harmon

The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle, has called for increased support from the United States in Intelligence Sharing, Counterterrorism Efforts, and the enhancement of Military Capabilities to address Nigeria’s evolving Security Challenges.

A Statement issued by Patience Ituke of the Ministry’s Directorate of Information and Public Relations, says Matawalle made the appeal during a Meeting with Garrick Harmon, the Director for Strategy, Engagement, and Programs of the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), who was on his Inaugural Official Visit to Nigeria.

At the Meeting which took place at Ship House in Abuja, Matawalle underscored the significance of strengthening Bilateral Defence Relations and urged the United States to expand its Assistance in Critical Areas, including Intelligence Cooperation, Technical Training, Logistics, and Equipment Support.

“Nigeria is dedicated to promoting Regional Peace and Security; however, we cannot achieve this alone,” he stated.

“We require more robust support from the United States, particularly in Intelligence Sharing and Capacity Building, to effectively combat Terrorism, Insurgency, and Transnational Threats,” he emphasised.

Harmon in his response, expressed gratitude for the warm reception and reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to supporting Nigeria’s Efforts in enhancing Security and Stability across West Africa.

He noted that despite the brief duration of his Visit, the Engagements in Nigeria have been highly productive and highlight the strength of the existing Partnership between the two Nations.

The two Countries acknowledged their Shared Interests and agreed on the necessity for deeper Collaboration in addressing the Security Challenges facing the Region.