Approaching the end of Boko Haram… Nigeria collaborates with Egypt to resolve the terrorism issue

By Mahmoud Mahamdi

Egypt has provided significant assistance to Nigeria in countering the terrorist group “Boko Haram,” which operates in northeastern Nigeria. This assistance includes weapons, military equipment, and military training, all of which have enhanced the capabilities of the Nigerian armed forces to confront Boko Haram.

Furthermore, Egypt has actively participated in intelligence sharing with Nigeria regarding Boko Haram, which has led to the thwarting of numerous terrorist attacks orchestrated by the group.

On a diplomatic front, Egypt has cooperated with Nigeria on international and regional platforms to strengthen global efforts against Boko Haram.

In 2015, Egypt delivered a shipment of military weapons and equipment to Nigeria valued at $20 million. This was followed by a military mission sent by Egypt to Nigeria in 2016 to participate in military training for the Nigerian armed forces.

In 2017, Egypt and Nigeria signed a security cooperation agreement aimed at enhancing collaboration between the two countries in the fight against terrorism and organized crime.

These contributions have resulted in significant progress in countering Boko Haram, as the group’s attacks have significantly declined in recent years, making it more challenging for them to carry out their operations.

Despite this progress, the Boko Haram issue remains a significant challenge for both Egypt and Nigeria. The two countries are committed to continuing their cooperation in this area to achieve further progress in combating this terrorist group.

Counterterrorism

In addition, the Nigerian Defense Minister, Mohammed Abu Bakr, expressed his country’s desire to benefit from Egypt’s effective efforts in countering terrorism in North Sinai as a means to combat terrorism and secure its borders.

During an event in Abuja commemorating the fiftieth anniversary of the Egyptian armed forces, Abu Bakr praised Egypt’s enduring military strength and commitment to protecting its sovereignty, even decades after the October War. He noted that Egypt has also been successful in defeating terrorism in North Sinai.

Abu Bakr mentioned that the Nigerian government adopts similar methods to those employed by the Egyptian government in its counterterrorism efforts. Their approach focuses on a comprehensive strategy that includes reconstruction and development programs aimed at improving the lives of citizens.

Abu Bakr emphasized that the relations between Egypt and Nigeria are strong, resilient, and ongoing, supported by diplomatic ties dating back to the 1960s. These relations have flourished through collaboration in various sectors, including communications, healthcare, and defense.

Support Chains

Furthermore, Ibrahim Idris, an expert on African affairs, pointed out that there has been a series of support provided to combat terrorism in Africa in general, and specifically in Somalia. He highlighted that the United Nations Security Council issued a resolution endorsing the African Union’s role in supporting the Somali experience, particularly after Somalis expressed their determination to confront the terrorism of the Al-Shabaab movement. Idris added that the Somali experience has gone through various stages, and the Somali government now possesses military determination.”