Nigeria has been described as a stabilising force in the West African sub-region, with particular commendation for the role of its Armed Forces in promoting regional security.
The Polish Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Michał Cygan, made the assertion on Tuesday, 13 January 2026, during an official courtesy visit to the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, at the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Headquarters in Abuja.
Ambassador Cygan praised the professionalism, resilience and sustained commitment of the Nigerian Armed Forces, especially the Nigerian Air Force, in counter-insurgency operations and broader regional security engagements. He noted that Nigeria’s strategic position and consistent security contributions have continued to play a critical role in advancing peace and stability across West Africa.
The envoy also expressed Poland’s interest in exploring practical avenues for enhanced bilateral defence cooperation with Nigeria, aimed at supporting the country’s security priorities. He said strengthened defence ties would not only boost Nigeria’s counter-insurgency capabilities but also reinforce collective regional efforts to address evolving and asymmetric security threats. According to him, cooperation founded on mutual respect and shared security interests remains essential in confronting contemporary challenges.
In his response, Air Marshal Aneke emphasised the importance of strategic international partnerships in addressing modern security concerns. He reaffirmed the NAF’s commitment to leveraging cooperation with friendly nations to improve operational effectiveness, capacity development and information sharing in support of national security objectives.
Discussions during the visit centred on deepening bilateral defence cooperation, particularly in areas supporting ongoing NAF operations, while underscoring defence diplomacy as a vital instrument for strengthening bilateral relations and sustaining peace and stability in Nigeria and the wider region.
