UK Defence Chief Visits Maiduguri for High-Level Security Talks With Nigeria

The United Kingdom’s Deputy Chief of the Defence Staff, Lieutenant General Sir Charlie Collins, has arrived in Maiduguri, Borno State, for high-level engagements with Nigerian military officials aimed at deepening defence cooperation between both countries.

The visit comes at a critical time as Nigeria continues efforts to tackle terrorism, insurgency, banditry and other security threats affecting different parts of the country, especially the North-East.

British Defence Staff West Africa confirmed Collins’ arrival on Tuesday, noting that the visit is focused on strengthening military collaboration and supporting Nigeria’s ongoing security operations.

According to the British military authority, the UK defence chief is in Maiduguri to meet with officers of the Nigerian Army and observe ongoing joint defence efforts between both nations.

“Welcome to Nigeria, Lt Gen Sir Charlie Collins KBE DSO, UK Deputy CDS (MSO). In Maiduguri with Nigerian Army colleagues, seeing UK-Nigeria defence cooperation first-hand and supporting Nigeria-led efforts to strengthen security and regional stability.”

Images released from the visit showed Collins being formally received by senior Nigerian military officers. The visit also featured ceremonial exchanges, including a guard of honour.

His visit highlights the growing military partnership between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, particularly in intelligence sharing, counter-terrorism support, training, and operational cooperation.

Over the years, the UK has remained one of Nigeria’s major defence partners, providing strategic support in the fight against Boko Haram insurgency and other security challenges in the region.

The visit is also expected to further discussions around defence strategy, capacity building, and long-term security cooperation between both countries.