At a time when insecurity continues to test regional cooperation in West Africa, Nigeria’s military role is once again drawing international recognition.
Poland’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Michał Cygan, has described Nigeria as a stabilising force in the region, praising the Nigerian Armed Forces, particularly the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), for their critical role in counter-insurgency and regional security operations.
The ambassador made the remarks on 13 January 2026 during a courtesy visit to the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, at the Nigerian Air Force Headquarters in Abuja.
He commended the professionalism and resilience of the Nigerian military, noting that Nigeria’s strategic position and sustained security engagements continue to contribute significantly to peace and stability across West Africa.
Cygan also expressed Poland’s interest in deepening bilateral defence cooperation, highlighting opportunities for practical collaboration to support Nigeria’s security priorities.
In his response, Air Marshal Aneke emphasised the importance of strategic international partnerships in addressing contemporary and asymmetric security threats.
He reaffirmed the NAF’s commitment to leveraging cooperation with friendly nations to enhance operational effectiveness, capacity building, and intelligence sharing in support of national and regional security.
Discussions during the meeting focused on strengthening defence ties between Nigeria and Poland, particularly in areas that would support the Nigerian Air Force’s ongoing counter-insurgency operations.
The engagement further underscored the role of defence diplomacy in fostering mutual understanding, operational cooperation, and stronger bilateral relations.
The meeting reaffirmed the NAF’s commitment to professionalism, partnership, and sustained engagement in promoting peace and security within Nigeria and the wider region.