The 55th Pakistan Navy Senior Staff Course team visited the Western Naval Command (WNC) this week, signaling a deepening of defence ties between Nigeria and Pakistan. The delegation was warmly received by Rear Admiral Abubakar Abdulahi Mustapha, Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), in a ceremony that underscored decades of bilateral cooperation.
In his opening remarks, FOC Mustapha welcomed the delegation on behalf of Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, Chief of Naval Staff, highlighting the enduring partnership between the two countries. “Defense cooperation remains the most strategic pillar of our relationship,” he noted, citing historical ties that extend across equipment procurement, training, and intelligence sharing.
Rear Admiral Mustapha detailed Nigeria’s acquisition of multi-role combat fighter aircraft and Super Mushak trainers from Pakistan, as well as anti-drone jammers and communication equipment, stressing their critical role in enhancing operational readiness across the armed forces.
The Admiral lauded the sustained military training exchanges, noting that Nigerian officers trained in Pakistan have excelled in both strategic and operational roles. “These exchanges are not mere formalities; they are rigorous programs producing top-tier military leaders,” he affirmed.
Highlighting operational cooperation, FOC Mustapha referenced intelligence-sharing initiatives and joint exercises that have enhanced maritime domain awareness. He emphasized the strategic value of collaboration in counter-terrorism and naval operations, noting personal experiences studying with Pakistani officers at the Naval Postgraduate School.
Commodore Muhammad Zahid Zaheer, Commodore Training Ashore, Karachi, expressed appreciation for the hospitality. “Whenever a Nigerian officer visits Pakistan, the bond is immediate. Our training programs have created a legacy of trust and mutual respect,” he said, revealing that the 55th Staff Course includes 102 officers, 28 from foreign nations, including one Nigerian officer.
Lieutenant Commander O.J. Osagie, Acting Staff Officer Grade 2 Operations, presented WNC’s operational highlights, including seizure of contraband, Ex OBANGAME EXPRESS, Ex CROCODILE LIFT with French LHD Tonnerre, arrest of oil thieves at sea, and personnel welfare initiatives such as a new five-a-side football pitch to boost morale and operational readiness.
Commodore Muhammad noted Nigeria’s continuous participation in the Amman series of exercises, highlighting opportunities for maritime exhibition collaboration, blue economy promotion, and dockyard partnerships, including Pakistan’s expertise in constructing submarines, frigates, and utility vessels.
Speaking with journalists, Commodore Muhammad emphasized the strong trade and diplomatic ties between the nations. “Our presence here demonstrates our commitment to cooperation in every field, from naval operations to maritime industry development,” he said, reaffirming the depth of the Nigeria-Pakistan relationship.
Rear Admiral Mustapha concluded by noting the prospects of future collaboration, including staff and war college exchanges, joint exercises, and shipbuilding partnerships. “Our shared vision ensures that both navies are better equipped to secure our maritime domains, promote regional stability, and enhance defence capabilities,” he said.
