The longstanding military partnership between Uganda and Nigeria has received a boost, following a high-level visit by a 30-member delegation from the Army War College Nigeria to Uganda.
Major General Jack Bakasumba, the Chief of Joint Staff of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), hailed the “cordial” ties between the two countries and called for expanded military cooperation.
Speaking on behalf of the CDF, Maj Gen Bakasumba addressed the visiting delegation at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs Headquarters in Mbuya.
The Nigerian officers and directing staff are in Uganda as part of a regional study tour intended to strengthen cross-border understanding of defence and security dynamics within Africa.
Highlighting Uganda’s military achievements under President Yoweri Museveni’s leadership, Maj Gen Bakasumba attributed UPDF’s strength and operational success to the President’s Pan-African vision.
“We have built a strong capacity to train our forces and have conducted many operations because our President has the spirit of Pan-Africanism,” he said, underlining the ideological foundation behind Uganda’s proactive military engagements.
He emphasized that the UPDF’s reach extends beyond national borders, driven by an African-led approach to security and peace.
“We do not share borders with Somalia, but because of our ideological clarity and willpower, we do not rely on foreigners to fight for us. We have the capacity to handle our security,” Maj Gen Bakasumba stated.
He also expressed appreciation to the Nigerian delegation for selecting Uganda as part of their academic and strategic research itinerary, describing the visit as recognition of Uganda’s increasing influence in regional security affairs.
In support of his remarks, Maj Gen Richard Otto, UPDF’s Chief of Intelligence and Security, reinforced Uganda’s commitment to peacekeeping and regional stability.
“The UPDF remains steadfast in providing security and is committed to peacekeeping missions both internally and externally,” he said.
The Nigerian delegation was led by Maj Gen Umar Alkali, Commandant of the Army War College Nigeria, who lauded Uganda for its hospitality and the UPDF for its professionalism and insight.
“It is a great honour and privilege to be hosted here. We have learned a lot, and tours like this are very important for us,” Maj Gen Alkali said.
He confirmed that the objectives of the visit had been fully met and encouraged continued interaction between the two defence institutions.
Also in attendance were senior UPDF officers, including Maj Gen Don Nabasa, Maj Gen Felix Kulayigye, Brig Gen Godwin Karugaba, Brig Gen Wycliffe Keita, and Col DM Bozegah, Nigeria’s Defence Attaché to Uganda.