The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has departed Egypt for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to sign a Defence and Military Cooperation Agreement between the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Saudi Arabia.
His trip comes immediately after the conclusion of the 4th Egypt Defence Exhibition (EDEX 2025) in Cairo, held from 1–4 December 2025, where Matawalle engaged with international defence stakeholders, explored cutting-edge military technologies, and represented Nigeria in key strategic discussions.
The minister’s official visit to Saudi Arabia was announced on Thursday, by his Personal Assistant on Media, who emphasized that the trip aims to strengthen and deepen longstanding bilateral defence relations between the two nations.
The agreement is expected to enhance military exchanges, improve operational efficiency, and contribute significantly to regional and international security efforts.
According to the statement, “The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammad Matawalle, MON, will proceed to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the Signing of the Defence and Military Cooperation Agreement between the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, following the conclusion of the 4th Egypt Defence Exhibition (EDEX 2025) held in Cairo, Arab Republic of Egypt, from 1 – 4 December 2025.
“The Minister’s official visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is poised to further strengthen and deepen the long-standing bilateral relations and cooperation between both nations in the Defence and Military sectors.
“While Nigeria and Saudi Arabia have maintained enduring military ties, the forthcoming agreement will provide a comprehensive framework for collaboration across several strategic areas. It is expected to enhance military exchanges, improve operational efficiency, and make a significant contribution to regional and international security efforts.
The Minister will conclude his visit to Saudi Arabia on Friday, 12 December 2025.
