Approaching the end of Boko Haram... Nigeria collaborates with Egypt to resolve the terrorism issue
Egypt has provided significant assistance to Nigeria in
countering the terrorist group "Boko Haram," which operates in
northeastern Nigeria. This assistance includes weapons, military equipment, and
military training, all of which have enhanced the capabilities of the Nigerian
armed forces to confront Boko Haram.
Furthermore, Egypt has actively participated in
intelligence sharing with Nigeria regarding Boko Haram, which has led to the
thwarting of numerous terrorist attacks orchestrated by the group.
On a diplomatic front, Egypt has cooperated with Nigeria
on international and regional platforms to strengthen global efforts against
Boko Haram.
In 2015, Egypt delivered a shipment of military weapons
and equipment to Nigeria valued at $20 million. This was followed by a military
mission sent by Egypt to Nigeria in 2016 to participate in military training
for the Nigerian armed forces.
In 2017, Egypt and Nigeria signed a security cooperation
agreement aimed at enhancing collaboration between the two countries in the
fight against terrorism and organized crime.
These contributions have resulted in significant progress
in countering Boko Haram, as the group's attacks have significantly declined in
recent years, making it more challenging for them to carry out their
operations.
Despite this progress, the Boko Haram issue remains a
significant challenge for both Egypt and Nigeria. The two countries are
committed to continuing their cooperation in this area to achieve further
progress in combating this terrorist group.
Counterterrorism
In addition, the Nigerian Defense Minister, Mohammed Abu
Bakr, expressed his country's desire to benefit from Egypt's effective efforts
in countering terrorism in North Sinai as a means to combat terrorism and
secure its borders.
During an event in Abuja commemorating the fiftieth
anniversary of the Egyptian armed forces, Abu Bakr praised Egypt's enduring
military strength and commitment to protecting its sovereignty, even decades
after the October War. He noted that Egypt has also been successful in
defeating terrorism in North Sinai.
Abu Bakr mentioned that the Nigerian government adopts
similar methods to those employed by the Egyptian government in its
counterterrorism efforts. Their approach focuses on a comprehensive strategy
that includes reconstruction and development programs aimed at improving the
lives of citizens.
Abu Bakr emphasized that the relations between Egypt and
Nigeria are strong, resilient, and ongoing, supported by diplomatic ties dating
back to the 1960s. These relations have flourished through collaboration in various
sectors, including communications, healthcare, and defense.
Support Chains
Furthermore, Ibrahim Idris, an expert on African affairs,
pointed out that there has been a series of support provided to combat
terrorism in Africa in general, and specifically in Somalia. He highlighted
that the United Nations Security Council issued a resolution endorsing the
African Union's role in supporting the Somali experience, particularly after
Somalis expressed their determination to confront the terrorism of the Al-Shabaab
movement. Idris added that the Somali experience has gone through various
stages, and the Somali government now possesses military determination."
