By Charles Pemu 
BAMAKO, MALI—Nigeria and Mali have pledged to significantly strengthen bilateral relations and intensify collaboration to address persistent regional security threats. This commitment was solidified during the visit of Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, to Mali’s Prime Minister, General Abdoulaye Maiga, on the sidelines of the maiden International Defence and Security Exhibition (BAMEX 2025).
Minister Badaru led the Nigerian delegation at BAMEX 2025, a strategic event designed to showcase defence technology and promote security collaboration across Africa. The exhibition is regarded as a vital platform for African nations and international partners to foster dialogue and chart common strategies against the continent’s emerging security challenges.
In a statement released by his Media Aide, Comrade Mati Ali, the Minister conveyed the warm greetings and goodwill of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the Government and people of Mali. Badaru described the Malian reception as “warm and exemplary” and reaffirmed Nigeria’s readiness to deepen ties with Mali, recognizing the shared security challenges that threaten peace in the region.
He emphasized that Nigeria regards Mali as a strategic partner, noting that shared security interests make defence collaboration a top priority for both nations.
In response, Prime Minister Maiga expressed deep appreciation for Nigeria’s strong participation in BAMEX 2025, calling it “a testament to our enduring friendship and mutual respect”. He stressed that the Malian government highly values Nigeria’s ongoing support and partnership as they confront various security issues together, asserting that such unity remains critical in safeguarding their nations against current and future threats.
Maiga further lauded the exhibition as “an essential platform for the exchange of ideas and innovations in defence,” vital for joint efforts to build resilient security structures in Africa.
The meeting, which included top military figures and the Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA) from Nigeria, signaled a renewed determination by both countries to leverage their shared experiences and resources to enhance security and stability in the West African region and beyond.