The Nigerian Navy and the Government of Bangladesh have pledged to deepen cooperation in maritime security, defence technology, professional training, shipbuilding and indigenous defence-industrial development following a high-level meeting in Abuja.
The commitment was made on Wednesday when the High Commissioner of Bangladesh to Nigeria, Mr Miah Md Mainul Kabir, paid a visit to the Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), where both sides explored areas of mutual interest aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and enhancing maritime security.
Speaking during the engagement, Kabir reaffirmed Bangladesh’s commitment to expanding defence and maritime cooperation with Nigeria.
He highlighted the long-standing cordial relationship between the two countries and stressed the need to translate diplomatic ties into practical collaborations, particularly in maritime security, technology exchange, naval shipbuilding and defence-industrial development.
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In his response, the Chief of the Naval Staff expressed appreciation to the High Commissioner and his delegation for the visit.
He underscored Nigeria’s operational successes in combating piracy and other maritime crimes in the Gulf of Guinea, noting that such experiences provide valuable opportunities for professional exchanges and shared learning between the two nations.
The CNS further emphasised the importance of stronger cooperation among navies in addressing transnational maritime threats, adding that Nigeria’s participation in multinational maritime security initiatives, including the Combined Maritime Task Force, could serve as a useful framework for tackling maritime militancy and related security challenges.
Discussions during the meeting also focused on opportunities for training and professional exchanges, naval technology transfer, shipbuilding and indigenous industrial development.
The Nigerian Navy expressed interest in Bangladesh’s thriving garment manufacturing industry as a possible avenue for knowledge-sharing to support local production of military uniforms.
Both parties also explored prospects for technical collaboration in naval shipbuilding as part of broader efforts to enhance defence capabilities and promote self-reliance in the defence sector.
The meeting concluded with an invitation to the Chief of the Naval Staff to visit Bangladesh to further advance discussions and strengthen cooperation in identified areas of mutual interest.
The engagement reflects the commitment of both countries to fostering stronger naval partnerships, enhancing maritime security, building professional and technical capacity, and promoting mutually beneficial bilateral relations.
