President Alasaine Quattara of Cote d’Ivoire has acknowledged various efforts of the Nigeria Army in maintaining peace and tranquility across the whole West Africa.

He made this remark at the Convocation Ceremony of the Nigeria Defense Academy in Kaduna State, where he was awarded Doctorate Degree (Honouraris Causa).

“The Nigerian Army helped the West Africa region to deploy not less than 1,200 personnel to Mali and Guinea Bissau during various conflicts that was witnessed in those places.” He said.

The Ivorian leader, who also doubled as the Chairman, Congress of Heads of States and Governments of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), attributed the competence of Nigeria Army personnel to the quality of training offered at the Nigeria Defense Academy (NDA).

“I will like to encourage this institution to double its efforts in producing competent officers that can stand against any form of security challenges.” Quattara said.

Furthermore, President Quattara said West Africa is placing a whole lot of demand on Nigeria sa a giant of Africa in sustainability of peace and tranquility within the region,

“You are aware that Cote d’Ivoire is recovering from military and political crises and we look forward to constant support from Nigeria in helping us to sustain peace in our country,” he said.

While concluding his speech, President Quattara thanked the authorities of the institution for the honour conferred on him, and also thanked President Goodluck Jonathan for being a worthy host.

“Finally, I want to use this medium to reestablish my friendship with Nigeria and President Goodluck Jonathan. Goodluck, you are a great leader,” he said.

In his respond, President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan thanked the Ivorian leader for honouring the invitation extended to him by the Nigeria Defense Academy. He also showered encomium on other awardees at the occasion.

President Quattara, along with Mrs. Folake Sholanke (First Female Senior Advocate of Nigeria) were given the Doctorate Degree (Honourary Causa) by the Nigeria Defense Academy, while Late. General Maman Kotangora (Former Vice-Chairman of SURE-P) was honoured with Post-Humour Doctorate degree.