United Kingdom’s deputy chief of the defence staff, Charlie Collins has arrived in Maiduguri, Borno state, to aid efforts against terrorism and enhance security and stability in the region.
The British Defence Staff West Africa announced the visit on Tuesday, adding that it would provide an opportunity to witness UK-Nigeria defence cooperation first hand.
The post read, “Welcome to Nigeria, Lt Gen Sir Charlie Collins KBE DSO, UK Deputy CDS (MSO).”
“In Maiduguri with @HQNigerianArmy colleagues, seeing UK-Nigeria defence cooperation first-hand and supporting Nigeria-led efforts to strengthen security and regional stability.”
Meanwhile, the visit comes few months after President Bola Tinubu visited the UK where he said Nigeria’s partnership with the United Kingdom (UK) is essential for tackling terrorism in the Sahel.
Tinubu spoke during a state banquet held at St George’s Hall, Windsor Castle, organised in honour of his state visit to the UK in March.
Tinubu’s UK Visit
On Wednesday, March 17, President Tinubu departed Abuja for two-day state visit to the United Kingdom. King Charles III and Queen Camilla on Wednesday formally received President Bola Tinubu and his wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, at Windsor Castle.
Prior to their brief journey to Windsor Castle, where King Charles III entertained them, Prince William and Princess Catherine met and greeted the Nigerian leader and his spouse at the Fairmont Hotel.
READ ALSO: Amid Tinubu’s visit, Nigeria, Britain set for fresh security alliance
Speaking during the visit, Tinubu stated that the country’s collaboration with the United Kingdom in addressing insecurity remained crucial, adding that he planned to discuss Nigeria’s counter-terrorism initiatives and challenges to regional stability during his meeting with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Thursday (today).
Additionally, Nigeria and the United Kingdom signed a £746 million export finance deal to support the redevelopment of two major ports in Lagos.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer and President Bola Tinubu met on Thursday in Downing Street in London, where they made the agreement public.
