The Federal Government of Nigeria is strengthening its security partnership with China to boost local arms production and enhance military training.
This collaboration is part of Nigeria’s broader strategy to combat terrorism and insecurity.
Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Yusuf Tuggar, disclosed this after President Bola Tinubu met with China’s Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Thursday.
Wang’s visit is part of his four-nation African tour, which also includes Namibia, DR Congo, and Chad.
Tuggar emphasised the need for local military equipment production to eliminate delays caused by international procurement regulations.
“We want to work with countries like China to domesticate military equipment production, both kinetic and non-kinetic,” he said.
This aligns with the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa’s call for self-reliance in arms production to address procurement delays affecting frontline troops.
China’s Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, announced a CN¥1 billion ($140 million) military aid package for Africa, which includes training 6,000 military personnel and 1,000 police officers across the continent.
China also reaffirmed support for Africa-led security solutions, rejecting foreign interference.
President Tinubu urged China to expand Nigeria’s $2 billion currency swap agreement and review the $50 billion aid package for Africa to meet the continent’s infrastructural needs.
He also sought China’s backing for Nigeria’s bid for a permanent seat on the UN Security Council.
In response, Wang expressed China’s support for Africa’s representation on the Security Council and welcomed Nigeria’s potential membership in BRICS.
He also encouraged Nigeria to issue Panda bonds to raise funds for infrastructure projects, highlighting China’s recent financial support for Nigeria’s railway modernisation.
Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to deepening economic and security cooperation, aiming for mutual growth and regional stability.
