The Defence Minister of Nigeria, Maj.-Gen. Bashir Magashi (rtd), on Wednesday, hosted Iranian Ambassador to Nigeria, Mohammad Alibak to strengthen Iran-Nigeria military ties.
This was contained in a statement in Abuja, by Mr Mohammad Abdulkadir, Special Assistant to the minister.
Magashi noted that the suggestion was to improve military relations between the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Islamic Republic of Iran.
Furthermore, he told the Iranian envoy to establish applicable models for establishing strong interaction between the armed forces of both countries.
Magashi appreciated the proposals for improved military ties between Nigeria and Iran, saying a “friend in need is a friend indeed.”
The ambassador, who was accompanied by his Political Adviser, Mostafa Majdara, thanked the minister for providing strategic direction to the partnership.
Albak promised to key into the new plans that would attract win-win outcomes including visitation to Iran by the Nigerian delegation, to assess fighting equipment Iran is offering to Nigeria on Government to Government business basis.
Meanwhile, the minister has inaugurated a committee for the hosting of the 6th meeting of the Nigeria- South Africa Defence Forum, scheduled to hold from Oct. 19 to 21.
The term of reference of the committee drawn from the Tri-Services and military institutions is to draw up actionable programmes for the successful hosting of the event.
The Nigeria-South Africa Defence Forum which dates back to 2015, is in furtherance of the 2013 Memorandum of Understanding signed by the two countries.
It is therefore aimed at promoting Civil-Military Relations and formulating Procedures for Military Cooperation between Nigeria Armed Forces and South Africa.
