Goronyo pledges stronger Nigeria-Egypt ties as defence attaché changes

By Onu Okorie

Minister of State for Works, Bello Muhammed Goronyo, has pledged Nigeria’s continued support for stronger bilateral cooperation between Nigeria and Egypt as the Egyptian Defence Attaché in Nigeria changes hands.
Goronyo made the commitment on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, in Abuja when he received the outgoing Egypt Defence Attaché, Colonel Mohammed Ibrahim, and his successor, Colonel Mohamad Mosaad, during a courtesy visit to his office.
The minister described relations between Nigeria and Egypt as cordial, longstanding and mutually beneficial, stressing that the two countries shared historical and cultural ties as well as common interests in Africa’s development.
He commended Ibrahim for his service and contribution to strengthening relations between the two countries during his tenure, particularly his professionalism, discipline, patriotism and commitment to duty.
Goronyo noted that the visit was significant because it provided an opportunity to bid farewell to the outgoing Defence Attaché while formally welcoming his successor and assuring him of Nigeria’s readiness to sustain the existing relationship.
According to him, Nigeria-Egypt relations have continued to gain momentum under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his Egyptian counterpart, Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, with both countries expanding cooperation in areas including trade, agriculture, tourism, security, education and economic development.
He urged African countries to deepen cooperation and leverage the continent’s vast human and natural resources to accelerate sustainable development.
Goronyo expressed optimism that the Memoranda of Understanding and other agreements reached between Nigeria and Egypt would translate into tangible benefits for citizens of both countries.
Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Works, Engr. David Nweze Umahi, and the management and staff of the ministry, Goronyo assured the Egyptian delegation of continued support.
“Our doors remain open, and we will continue to support one another for the progress of our two countries and for the benefit of humanity,” he said.
Earlier, Ibrahim expressed appreciation to Goronyo for receiving him and his delegation, describing the meeting as particularly significant as he prepares to conclude his diplomatic assignment in Nigeria.
He introduced Mosaad as his successor and expressed confidence that the existing strong relationship between Nigeria and Egypt would be further strengthened under the new Defence Attaché.
Ibrahim also disclosed that the Egyptian authorities had approved the establishment of a Deputy Defence Attaché position in Nigeria.
He described the development as an indication of the importance Egypt attaches to its bilateral and military relationship with Nigeria.
In his remarks, Mosaad thanked Goronyo for the warm reception and pledged to work towards deepening cooperation between the two countries.
He said he looked forward to identifying additional opportunities for collaboration, investment and exchange of capabilities between Nigeria and Egypt.
Mosaad further noted that Nigeria and Egypt, as two major African countries, had a shared responsibility to contribute to the advancement of the continent through stronger partnerships.
He expressed confidence that his tenure would consolidate the longstanding friendship, cultural ties and cooperation between the two nations.
The meeting ended with renewed commitments to mutual support, expanded cooperation and stronger Nigeria-Egypt bilateral relations.