Nigerian Army, Denmark Seek Stronger Defence Ties to Tackle Emerging Security Threats
The Nigerian Army and the Kingdom of Denmark are exploring ways to strengthen defence cooperation to improve military capabilities, intelligence sharing and responses to emerging security threats in Nigeria and the wider West African region.
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, made the call on Friday, October 16, 2026, when he received the Danish Ambassador to Nigeria, Jens Ole Bach Hansen, and the Defence Attaché, Lieutenant Colonel Henrik Laugesen, at the Army Headquarters in Abuja.
Shaibu stressed the importance of international partnerships in strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture and promoting regional stability through coordinated military engagements, knowledge exchange and sustainable capacity development.
He noted that closer collaboration between Nigeria and Denmark would create opportunities to improve military effectiveness by sharing expertise, operational experience and best practices to address evolving security challenges.
The Army Chief identified modern tactical capabilities, force protection, border surveillance, professional military education and knowledge exchange as key areas for cooperation.
According to him, collaboration in these areas would enhance the operational effectiveness of troops deployed to the North-East and North-West theatres of operation.
Shaibu also emphasised the need for a comprehensive approach to national security, noting that military effectiveness depends not only on well-equipped personnel but also on strong institutions and sustained investment in troops’ welfare, rehabilitation and career development.
He maintained that improving personnel welfare and professional development was essential to boosting morale and maintaining combat readiness.
Earlier, Ambassador Hansen expressed Denmark’s willingness to expand its existing security partnership with Nigeria beyond maritime security initiatives in the Gulf of Guinea to include direct cooperation with the Nigerian Army.
He identified tactical training, operational knowledge exchange and strategic capacity building as areas where both countries could deepen their engagement.
The Danish envoy commended the resilience and operational achievements of Nigerian troops, noting that peace and stability were crucial to economic growth and sustainable development.
Hansen also conveyed Denmark’s condolences over the loss of military personnel in the line of duty and reaffirmed his country’s commitment to mutually beneficial defence cooperation with Nigeria.
The visit provided an opportunity for both countries to explore areas of common interest in military training, operational effectiveness and capacity development to strengthen national and regional security.
