India and Nigeria Strengthen Cooperation in Counter-Terrorism Efforts
India and Nigeria’s National Security Advisors convened for a dialogue to strengthen collaboration against terrorism, focusing on capacity building and addressing radicalization. They affirmed that there is no justification for terrorism and emphasized their commitment to year-round cooperation in security initiatives. This partnership is rooted in longstanding historical ties and growing economic relations, marking a strategic approach to shared security challenges.
On November 5, 2024, the National Security Advisors of India and Nigeria, Ajit Doval and Nuhu Ribadu respectively, convened for the Second Strategic and Counter-Terrorism Dialogue in New Delhi. The discussions, guided by the framework of the India-Nigeria partnership, focused comprehensively on various aspects of terrorism, including extremism and radicalization, particularly in the context of cyberspace, alongside addressing international crime and drug trafficking. Both nations strongly affirmed their position that terrorism cannot be justified in any form and agreed to bolster bilateral cooperation in capacity building as well as their collaborative efforts on the international stage to combat these shared threats. During his visit, Mr. Ribadu also toured the facilities of the National Security Guard in Manesar, highlighting the ongoing security collaboration between the two countries. The inaugural meeting of this strategic dialogue took place in March 2021 in New Delhi, reflecting the increasing importance of high-level interactions, with notable engagements such as the visit of India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to Nigeria earlier in January 2024, and the meeting of Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the G20 Summit held in September 2023. The longstanding relationship between India and Nigeria is characterized by mutual respect and cooperation, particularly in the realms of defense and trade. Since establishing a Diplomatic House in Lagos in 1958, prior to Nigeria’s independence, both nations have elevated their relationship to a Strategic Partnership, particularly after a defense cooperation agreement signed in October 2007. This alliance encompasses initiatives aimed at counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency, which continue to underpin the bilateral partnership. In terms of economic relations, India ranks among Nigeria’s top five trading partners, with bilateral trade reaching USD 11.85 billion in 2022-23. Additionally, India is extending its role as a development partner, offering significant assistance through Lines of Credit for various infrastructure projects in Nigeria, amounting to approximately USD 100 million. Currently underway are projects that provide crucial energy solutions and electricity generation enhancements in Nigerian states such as Cross River and Kaduna, further solidifying India’s commitment to Nigeria’s development while fostering strategic cooperation against security threats.
The recent meeting between India’s National Security Advisor and his Nigerian counterpart underscores the depth of the strategic partnership between the two nations, with terrorism being a key area of concern. By sharing intelligence and best practices on counter-terrorism measures, both countries aim to strengthen their response to both domestic and transnational threats. The historical context of bilateral relations rooted in defense and trade, complemented by recent diplomatic engagements, establishes a solid foundation for cooperative efforts against terrorism.
In conclusion, the dialogue between India and Nigeria highlights their commitment to combating terrorism through collaborative efforts in capacity building, intelligence sharing, and mutual support on the international front. With historical ties cemented through defense and trade, both nations are well-positioned to address the complexities of modern terrorism, enhancing their security frameworks while promoting economic development through strategic partnerships. The focus on specific areas of cooperation signifies a proactive approach to safeguarding national and global security against the pervasive threat of terrorism.
Original Source: www.indianewsnetwork.com
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