The Federal Government has called for increased support from the European Union(EU) in addressing the country’s security challenges.
Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru while making the call, stressed the interconnectivity of global security issues at an event tagged, “Road to Schuman Forum on Security and Defence”.
The event was organised by the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) in collaboration with the European Union (EU) on the 15th of May 2024.
Speaking at the event, Badaru who was represented by the ministry’s permanent secretary, Dr. Ibrahim Kana, emphasized that insecurity anywhere in the world ultimately affects other nations.
The minister stated that Nigeria is battling with various security issues such as terrorism, banditry and kidnapping, and urged the government to seek the assistance of the EU.
According to Badaru, even a small percentage of the resources and funding allocated to other regions like Ukraine, could help aid Nigeria in Fighting terrorism and banditry.
He showed concern about Africa’s security challenges receiving less attention compared to conflicts in other parts of the world and admitted the need for urgent support.
Major General Adamu Garba Laka, the National coordinator of NCTC said there was a need for collective efforts from stakeholders and partners to address emerging security threats not only in Nigeria but also across the ECOWAS region.
Ambassador Samuel Isopi, the head of the European Union Delegation to Nigeria, highlighted that the meeting was to gather insights and assessment on Peace, Security and Defence challenges facing Nigeria and its regional environment.
This event was organized as a precursor to the Schuman Security and Defence Forum scheduled for the 28th and 29th of May, 2024 in Brussels, Belgium as Nigeria will participate alongside EU member states, partner countries and international organizations to discuss and shape the collaborations of security and Defence.
