COAS Shaibu Seeks Stronger Military Cooperation Between Nigeria, Zambia
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has called for stronger military cooperation among African countries to address emerging security challenges through intelligence sharing, joint training and coordinated operations.
Shaibu made the call on Monday, October 26, 2026, during bilateral military talks with the Commander of the Zambia Army, Lieutenant General Geoffrey Choongo Zyeele, on the sidelines of the African International Defence Exhibition (AFRIDEX) 2026 in Lagos.
The COAS noted that the growing threats of terrorism, insurgency, transnational organised crime and unconstitutional changes of government require a united and coordinated response from African nations.
He stressed that no country could effectively tackle these challenges in isolation, emphasising the need for sustained collaboration among African armed forces.
Shaibu reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to strengthening military relations with Zambia and other African partners, particularly in counter-terrorism operations, peace support missions, professional military training and capacity development.
In his response, Lieutenant General Zyeele commended the Nigerian Army for its contributions to regional security and its efforts to combat terrorism.
He expressed Zambia’s readiness to deepen military cooperation with Nigeria to improve operational effectiveness and advance shared security interests.
The bilateral engagement forms part of Shaibu’s activities at AFRIDEX 2026, which has brought together African military leaders, defence industry stakeholders and strategic partners to explore opportunities for defence collaboration, technological advancement and coordinated responses to emerging security threats.
COAS Shaibu Seeks Stronger Military Cooperation Between Nigeria, Zambia