Kunle Adelabu
The Chairman, House of Representatives Defence Committee, Rep. Babajimi Benson, has explained his hosting of Mark Handloff, the new Military-Political Advisor at the United States of America (USA) Embassy, as part of the ongoing efforts at deepening legislative diplomacy between Nigeria and the U.S.
Rep. Benson, representing the Ikorodu Federal Constituency, hosted the U.S Embassy team in Nigeria at his office on Tuesday.
In a statement released on his social media handles, the ranking federal lawmaker, said that his discussions with the US diplomat centered around critical areas between Nigeria and U.S relations.
He listed Strategic Support for the Armed Forces of Nigeria, Addressing human rights concerns in military operations, Internal security challenges and the need for state police, Strengthening military capacity through targeted support, Enhancing regional security within ECOWAS and Opportunities for collaboration with DICON as the key points.
Other areas of discussion listed by Rep. Benson include, Improved military personnel welfare, Promoting transparency in military procurement and Strengthening oversight of defence operations.
The lawmaker also said the engagement reaffirms the House of Representatives’ – and particularly the House Committee on Defence’s – unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives, protecting property and building a safer Nigeria.
