Israel to Assist Nigeria in Combating Banditry, Terrorism
Nigeria and Israel have agreed to deepen security cooperation aimed at tackling the country’s persistent threats from bandits, Boko Haram insurgents, and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists. The agreement was formalised during bilateral talks between Nigeria’s Deputy Foreign Minister, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, and her Israeli counterpart, Sharren Haskel-Harpaz.
In a joint communiqué, both nations outlined plans to collaborate in counter-terrorism operations, intelligence gathering, and the exchange of information on terror financing.
The partnership will also cover advanced security training and closer coordination through multilateral platforms. Officials say the initiative is designed to enhance Nigeria’s capacity to confront violent groups that have continued to destabilise several regions, particularly the North-East.
Beyond direct security measures, the agreement includes provisions for cooperation in technology-driven border control, capacity building, cultural exchange, tourism, agriculture, and improved consular and immigration services. Both parties expressed confidence that the partnership would yield long-term benefits across multiple sectors.
The development comes amid renewed insurgent activity in Nigeria’s North-East, where Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters have intensified attacks using roadside bombs, drones, and coordinated ambushes. In recent months, dozens of civilians and security personnel have been killed in states such as Borno and Adamawa. Security analysts say Israel’s advanced expertise in intelligence-led operations, surveillance systems, and rapid response mechanisms could provide Nigeria with a much-needed technological advantage in countering these threats.
Officials from both countries emphasised that the cooperation would not only focus on defeating terrorism but also address underlying factors that enable such groups to thrive, including weak border controls and inadequate early-warning systems. The partnership is expected to be implemented in phases, with security and intelligence cooperation forming the first stage before expanding into other areas of mutual interest.
