By Nkechi Eze
The 6th Session of the Nigeria–South Africa Bi-National Commission Defence and Security Committee commenced today at the Nigeria Army Conference Centre and Suites, Asokoro, Abuja, with delegates from both countries reaffirming their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation in defence and security.
The five-day meeting, which brings together stakeholders from relevant ministries, departments and agencies alongside the South African delegation, is expected to provide a platform for deepening collaboration in counterterrorism, maritime security, peace support operations and responses to emerging threats.
In his welcome address, the Acting Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Dr. Sunday Attah, described the Committee as a “key working group” of the Bi-National Commission that offers a structured mechanism for reviewing progress, addressing emerging security challenges and advancing strategic initiatives. He commended the 5th session held in Johannesburg, noting that it laid the foundation for the current deliberations.
Dr. Attah reminded delegates of the Police Agreement of 2001 and the Defence Cooperation Agreement of 2013, which continue to facilitate bilateral exchanges, training, capacity-building programmes and joint operations. He stressed the importance of consolidating these achievements. “As two leading nations on the African continent, Nigeria and South Africa share a responsibility to safeguard regional peace, stability and security,” he said. He further noted that the partnership between both nations “remains a strong pillar of African solidarity, rooted in mutual respect and a vision for a secure continent.”
Leader of the South African delegation, Mr. Simeon Dumisani Dladla, said the engagement would help reinforce defence cooperation between the two countries. He explained that the talks would expand training opportunities, promote intelligence sharing, and foster collaboration in the defence industry.
The session will run through the week, with participants expected to produce practical outcomes that will consolidate cooperation across defence and security sectors.
