Cynthia Ezegwu
Nigeria and Mali have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and tackling regional security threats as both countries move to deepen defence cooperation.
This follows a courtesy visit by Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, to Mali’s Prime Minister, General Abdoulaye Maiga, on the sidelines of the maiden International Defence and Security Exhibition (BAMEX 2025) in Bamako.
Badaru, who led the Nigerian delegation to the exhibition, described the visit as a diplomatic milestone aimed at boosting collaboration and advancing security partnerships across Africa. BAMEX 2025, which brings together African nations and global partners, is designed to promote dialogue, strengthen cooperation, and showcase innovations in defence technology.
In a statement on Friday by the Media Aide to the Minister of Defence, Comrade Mati Ali, Badaru commended Mali’s “warm and exemplary” hospitality and reaffirmed Nigeria’s readiness to enhance defence ties with Mali in the face of shared security challenges.
“I bring the goodwill and warm greetings of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the Government and people of Mali. Nigeria is committed to deepening our ties and working closely with Mali to tackle challenges that threaten peace in our region,” Badaru said.
He noted that Mali remains a strategic partner, stressing that both nations must prioritise defence collaboration to address the evolving threats confronting West Africa.
Responding, Maiga expressed appreciation for Nigeria’s participation in BAMEX 2025, describing it as proof of the “enduring friendship and mutual respect” between the two nations.
“The Government of Mali values Nigeria’s ongoing support and partnership, especially as we confront various security issues together. Such unity remains critical in safeguarding our nations against current and future threats,” he said.
READ ALSO: Insecurity: Nigerians Expect Results Not Excuses, Tinubu Charges Service Chiefs
Maiga also praised BAMEX 2025 as an essential platform for African countries to exchange ideas and innovations that support the development of resilient security structures on the continent.
According to the statement, both countries signalled renewed determination to leverage shared experience and resources toward securing the West African region and beyond.
The meeting was attended by top military officials from both nations. Members of the Nigerian delegation included the Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency, the Director of Operations at the Defence Headquarters, and officials of the Nigerian Embassy in Mali.