Terrorism: FG to strengthen cooperation with France —Defence Minister

By Tobias Lengnan Dapam

The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar has said that the Federal Government under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would strengthen the defence cooperation with France to curb the menace of terrorism, banditry and other forms of criminalities in the country.
A statement issued on Tuesday by Henshaw Ogubike, Director (Press & PR), said the Minister stated this when he received the members of French Parliament and members of Defence Commission led by Gassilloud Thomas at Ship House, Abuja.
While commenting on the existing relationship between the two countries, the Minister said the relationships need to be strengthened in the area of Military equipment, training and further cooperations.
The Minister added that since his assumption of office as the Honourable Minister of Defence, he has had three engagements with France in the area of Military cooperation and this shows the good relationship we have with France.
“I believe the French Government can support Nigeria with equipment to fight insecurity and insurgency. You are aware Nigeria has a huge population with great economic potentials and this can help the economies to stabilize,” he said.
He also commended the French Parliament relationship with Nigerian Parliament saying that such cooperation would boost the fight against insecurity.
Earlier, the head of the Parliament, Mr Gassiloud Thomas commended the Minister for the quality and robust way he has been handling security challenges in the country.
He said that the French Government would support in other areas the Minister thinks the French Government can assist Nigeria in the fight against insecurity in Nigeria.
He said : “The role you are playing to strengthen the relationship is highly appreciated and we will continue to support this present government in order to curb insecurity. This relationship is very important because Nigeria has extraordinary potential and the role Nigeria is playing in the regional security as Nigeria has one of the most efficient military.”