Nigeria and the Republic of Mali have restated their shared determination to deepen bilateral cooperation aimed at addressing persistent and emerging security challenges across the West African region.
Okay News reports that this renewed pledge emerged during a high-level diplomatic engagement in Bamako, the Malian capital, where Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, paid a formal visit to Mali’s Prime Minister, General Abdoulaye Maiga.
During the minister’s visit, which took place on the sidelines of the maiden International Defence and Security Exhibition known as BAMEX 2025, both countries emphasised that their long-standing partnership must evolve to meet the growing complexity of regional threats. BAMEX 2025, launched as a continental showcase for defence innovation and intergovernmental collaboration, has become a critical platform for African nations seeking joint solutions to terrorism, transnational crime, and border insecurity.
In a statement released to journalists by the Minister’s Media Aide, Comrade Mati Ali, Badaru described the reception he received in Mali as “warm and exemplary,” adding that the country’s hospitality reflected the sincerity of its commitment to stronger ties with Nigeria. According to the statement, the Minister affirmed that his engagement in Bamako was undertaken on behalf of Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
He was quoted as saying, “I bring the goodwill and warm greetings of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the Government and people of Mali. Nigeria is committed to deepening our ties and working closely with Mali to tackle challenges that threaten peace in our region.”
Badaru further highlighted that Nigeria views Mali as a central partner in the collective effort to restore stability in the Sahel and neighbouring zones plagued by insurgency and political volatility.
Prime Minister Maiga, in his response, expressed profound appreciation for Nigeria’s consistent support, describing the minister’s presence at BAMEX 2025 as “a testament to our enduring friendship and mutual respect.” He stressed that Mali considers Nigeria’s involvement essential to its own security aspirations, particularly at a time when coordinated action is needed more than ever.
He noted, “The Government of Mali values Nigeria’s ongoing support and partnership, especially as we confront various security issues together. Such unity remains critical in safeguarding our nations against current and future threats.”
The Prime Minister also endorsed BAMEX 2025 as “an essential platform for the exchange of ideas and innovations in defence, vital for our joint efforts to build resilient security structures in Africa.”
A statement from Nigeria’s Defence Ministry added that as the exhibition concluded, both countries demonstrated a shared resolve to consolidate their experiences, enhance intelligence sharing, and reinforce strategic alliances that secure the West African subregion.
Senior military and intelligence leaders accompanied Badaru during the visit, including the Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency, the Director of Operations at Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters, and officials from the Nigerian Embassy in Mali. Their presence underscored Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening institutional collaboration with Mali for long-term stability and peace.
