The French Military Academy (Ecole Spéciale Militaire De Saint-Cyr) has announced plans to deepen its collaboration with the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) in the areas of education and military training.
This was disclosed on Tuesday, by the Commandant of the French Military Academy, Lt.-Gen. Emmanuel Charpy, during a working visit to the NDA headquarters in Kaduna, where he also highlighted the importance of strengthening bilateral military relations between France and Nigeria.
Lt.-Gen. Charpy emphasised the need for language proficiency, particularly in French and English, to enhance interoperability between the armed forces of both countries.
He further revealed that Nigerian cadets were currently attending training programs at the French Military Academy and expressed his intention to expand this cooperation.
Following a tour of NDA facilities, the French Commandant commended the high level of fitness and discipline displayed by the Nigerian cadets, particularly during an obstacle race demonstration.
“The purpose of this visit is to promote military cooperation and create opportunities for joint operations and training exercises between Nigeria and France,” Lt.-Gen. Charpy stated.
Maj.-Gen. Abdul Ibrahim, Commandant of NDA, welcomed the French delegation and outlined the academy’s commitment to training junior officers from Nigeria and allied countries.
He noted that NDA places strong emphasis on international cooperation and language training, including French.
Maj.-Gen. Ibrahim highlighted the academy’s language laboratory, where cadets acquire French language skills to facilitate communication with neighboring Francophone countries and improve operational coordination.
He also described an ongoing exchange programme, which enables lecturers and cadets from both institutions to participate in cross-training and professional development opportunities.
The partnership aimed to bolster joint counter-terrorism efforts, with well-trained cadets expected to play key roles in national and regional security operations.
Maj.-Gen. Ibrahim said the visit would further strengthen bilateral ties and provide avenues for mutual learning. He added that reciprocal visits between the two academies are planned to enhance collaboration.
The French delegation toured various NDA facilities, including the academic branch and the Hall of Fame. They also witnessed drill displays by fifth-term cadets, physical training sessions, and obstacle crossing exercises by fourth-term cadets.
The visit ended with a special dinner featuring performances by the military band and cultural displays.
