Nigeria, Rwanda Deepen Defence Ties on IED Threats, Counterterrorism
…Shaibu, Marizamunda push specialised training, knowledge-sharing and operational cooperation
Nigeria and Rwanda have moved to strengthen bilateral defence cooperation, with a renewed focus on Improvised Explosive Device (IED) threat mitigation, victim care, counterterrorism and counterinsurgency operations.
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, made the call during a meeting with Rwanda’s Minister of Defence, Juvenal Marizamunda, in Kigali on Wednesday, October 21, 2026.
Shaibu emphasised the strategic importance of sharing operational expertise and expanding specialised military training to address evolving security threats, improve operational readiness and promote regional stability.
He expressed appreciation to the Rwandan defence minister for approving his official working visit and pledged sustained efforts to strengthen defence relations between both countries.
The Army Chief also commended the professionalism, discipline and training standards of Rwanda’s military institutions, particularly the Rwanda Military Academy at Gako, following his engagements with the institutions.
He urged both countries to explore broader collaboration in IED detection, countermeasures and victim care, while drawing on their respective experiences in counterterrorism and counterinsurgency operations.
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According to him, closer cooperation in these areas would enhance operational preparedness, protect civilians and strengthen the capacity of both armed forces to confront asymmetric threats.
In his remarks, Marizamunda acknowledged the Nigerian Army’s contributions to advancing existing defence relations, particularly through professional military exchanges covering officer-cadet training and strategic-level military education.
He specifically recognised Nigeria’s deployment of two directing staff to support the development of the National Defence College–Rwanda, describing professional exchanges and institutional collaboration as important components of bilateral military relations.
The Rwandan minister also encouraged deeper cooperation in counterinsurgency and peace support operations, urging both countries to leverage their operational experiences for mutual benefit.
He stressed that sustained defence partnerships, specialised training and knowledge-sharing were essential to building resilient armed forces and advancing regional and international peace.
The renewed push for cooperation highlights the growing importance of bilateral military partnerships in addressing complex security challenges, particularly those involving terrorism, insurgency and the use of improvised explosive devices.
For Nigeria and Rwanda, expanding collaboration in operational training, professional military education and specialised counterterrorism capabilities offers an opportunity to strengthen their respective armed forces while contributing to broader security efforts across Africa.
The meeting formed part of Shaibu’s official working visit to Rwanda, which is aimed at strengthening military relations and exploring additional areas of cooperation between the two countries.
