COAS Advocates for Pan-African Collaboration at France Symposium
COAS Advocates for Pan-African Collaboration at France Symposium
COAS Advocates for Pan-African Collaboration at France Symposium
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, participated in the prestigious International Army Chiefs’ Symposium held in Rennes, France, on Saturday, June 20, 2024.
The symposium, themed “Peace, Security, and the Commitment of the Youth,” saw the convergence of 12 national army chiefs from across Africa, hosted by French Army Chief of Staff, General Schill Pierre.
In his opening remarks, General Schill emphasised the necessity for the French Army to transition from a purely military engagement to a more inclusive and mutually beneficial partnership with African nations.
“This shift aims to enhance peace and security through collaborative efforts beyond traditional military paradigms.
General Lagbaja delivered a compelling presentation on “Armies and the Protection of Their National Territories: Legal Framework, Issues, and Challenges.”
He highlighted the critical role of local and international laws in the fight against non-state actors, who often disregard these legal frameworks.
Lagbaja stressed the importance of comprehensive collaboration that extends beyond the armed forces to effectively address the complexities of territorial protection.
The COAS was notably one of only two foreign delegates, alongside his Ivorian counterpart, given the honour to present at the symposium, underscoring the significance of his insights and contributions to the discourse.
Accompanied by Major General John Ochai, Commandant of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), and other delegation members, General Lagbaja also attended the commissioning ceremony of cadets at the Saint-Cyr Military Academy in Coetquida.
“This visit facilitated bilateral discussions on cadet training, further strengthening military ties between Nigeria and France.
The participation of General Lagbaja and his delegation in this high-profile symposium marks a pivotal step towards fostering greater international cooperation to safeguard national territories and promote regional stability.
COAS Advocates for Pan-African Collaboration at France Symposium
