The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening defence cooperation with France following the successful conclusion of the Fifth Nigeria–France High Defence Staff Talks held from June 29 to 30, 2026, at the Defence Headquarters, Abuja
The statement was signed by Major General Samaila Uba, Director Defence Information.
Representing the CDS at the closing session, the Chief of Defence Training, Rear Admiral Abolade Ogunleye, described the engagement as a vital platform for consolidating the longstanding strategic partnership between Nigeria and France. He also conveyed the appreciation of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to the French delegation for honouring the invitation to participate in the talks.
General Oluyede said the High Defence Staff Talks have continued to serve as a critical mechanism for enhancing bilateral military cooperation through strategic dialogue, joint training, intelligence sharing, capacity building and other collaborative initiatives. According to him, the enduring relationship between both countries reflects their shared commitment to promoting regional and global peace and security.
The CDS expressed confidence that the outcomes of the deliberations would further strengthen professional ties between the Armed Forces of both nations and expand existing areas of defence cooperation for mutual benefit.
Leader of the French delegation, Lieutenant General Eric Peltier, commended the Armed Forces of Nigeria for hosting the meeting and reaffirmed France’s commitment to deepening defence collaboration through sustained strategic engagement to address emerging regional security challenges.
He described Nigeria as a leading power in Africa with a pivotal role in maintaining regional peace and stability, noting that the country’s extensive operational experience and understanding of the regional security environment remain invaluable in building a stronger and more productive defence partnership.
Lieutenant General Peltier added that the high-level engagement created opportunities for both countries to identify new areas of cooperation while strengthening existing defence relations through meaningful interactions among relevant defence institutions.
The Fifth Nigeria–France High Defence Staff Talks underscored the growing strategic partnership between both nations, driven by evolving security, geopolitical, economic and regional realities, while reaffirming their collective resolve to promote peace, stability and shared security.
