President Muhammadu Buhari has said that Nigeria will partner with the Republic of Turkey in dealing with the current security challenges facing the country.
Buhari said this on Friday at a bilateral meeting with Turkish President, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, shortly before the official commencement of the 3rd Turkey-Africa Partnership Summit in Istanbul, Turkey.
The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, disclosed this in a statement titled ‘Nigeria, Turkey To Strengthen Security, Defence Ties.’
While assuring that the relationship between the two states will continue to grow for the mutual benefits of both countries, Buhari said he was pleased with the Turkish offer of support in the area of security and peace in Nigeria.
Buhari was quoted as saying, “Turkey has practical experience dealing with challenges over the years and Nigeria stands to gain from that.
“I wish to express my appreciation for the special invitation for this meeting and to express my happiness with your offer of assistance in dealing with the challenges facing us.
‘‘I await the reports of officials and the ministers as they hold meetings with their counterparts. I assure you that I will endorse all their positive recommendations.”
Erdogan, the Turkish leader earlier said that he was happy to receive Buhari shortly after he paid an official visit to Nigeria.
He said, “Turkey understands the challenges facing Nigeria and its needs, and we are ready to assist you to meet those needs especially in the area of defence.
‘‘I am happy Nigeria is stepping up cooperation with other nations in areas of defence and health, and we are ready to cooperate with you on these areas and more.”