Turkey has welcomed the decision of Nigeria to buy naval ships from its shipyard in recognition of its growing influence in the world as a military power with demonstrable successes in Iraq, Syria, Libya and lately Azerbaijan.
The announcement was made by the Turkish President, Recep Erdogan, during a meeting with the President, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd.), during a bilateral meeting between the two leaders on Friday before the commencement of the 3rd Turkey-Africa Partnership Summit.
This is according to a statement by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, titled, ‘Nigeria, Turkey to strengthen security, defence ties’.
Erdogan was quoted as saying discussions were ongoing on how to strengthen the capacity of the Defence Industries Corporation in Kaduna in line with an agreement signed during his last state visit to Nigeria.
Buhari, on his part, said as part of sustained efforts at keeping Nigerians safer, the country would partner the Republic of Turkey in dealing with the current security challenges facing it.
This is as he said Turkey had practical experience dealing with challenges over the years and Nigeria stood to gain from that.
Buhari spoke on Friday in Istanbul at a bilateral meeting with his Turkish counterpart, Recep Erdogan, shortly before the commencement of the 3rd Turkey-Africa Partnership Summit.
This is according to a statement by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, titled, ‘Nigeria, Turkey to strengthen security, defence ties’.
Buhari, who acknowledged that Turkey had garnered a lot of experience dealing with security challenges of various kinds, said Nigeria would latch onto that experience.
“Turkey has practical experience dealing with challenges over the years and Nigeria stands to gain from that,” Buhari was quoted as saying.
Giving assurances that the relationship between the two states would continue to grow for their mutual benefits, the President said he was pleased with the Turkish offer of support to Nigeria in the area of security and peace.
Buhari told his host, “I wish to express my appreciation for the special invitation to this meeting and to express my happiness with your offer of assistance in dealing with the challenges facing us.
“I await the reports of officials and the ministers as they hold meetings with their counterparts. I assure you that I will endorse all their positive recommendations.”
Earlier, the Turkish leader said he was happy to receive Buhari shortly after he paid an official visit to Nigeria.
Erdogan said, “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 that Nigeria is stepping up cooperation with other nations in areas of defence and health, and we are ready to cooperate with you in these areas and more.”
