Nigeria, Turkey To Strengthen Security, Defence Ties – Buhari

President Muhammadu Buhari, Friday said Nigeria will partner with the Republic of Turkey in dealing with the current security challenges facing the nation in his efforts at keeping Nigerians safer. President Buhari stated this at a bilateral meeting with Recep Tayyip Erdogan, his Turkish counterpart shortly before the official commencement of the 3rd Turkey-Africa Partnership Summit in Istanbul. According to a statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Mallam Garba Shehu, President Buhari acknowledged that Turkey had garnered a lot of experience dealing with security challenges of various kinds and Nigeria will latch onto that experience. While giving assurances that the relationship between the two states will continue to grow for the mutual benefits of both countries. President Buhari said he was pleased with the Turkish offer of support in the area of security and peace in Nigeria.
Earlier, the Turkish leader said that he was happy to receive President Buhari shortly after he paid an official visit to Nigeria. “Turkey understands the challenges facing Nigeria and its needs, and we are ready to assist you to meet those needs especially in the area of defence. I am happy Nigeria is stepping up cooperation with other nations in areas of defence and health, and we are ready to cooperate with you on these areas and more. Meanwhile, President Buhari Friday celebrated his 79th birthday in Istanbul by cutting a birthday cake moulded in national colours, green white green. The event marked the start of the day before he chaired a planning meeting with officials in his delegation and subsequently went to the Dolmabahce Palace for a meeting with Erdogan.