Nigeria is deepening its security collaboration with the People’s Republic of China as part of its efforts to address terrorism and other forms of insecurity both within its borders and in neighboring regions. The Federal Government has emphasized the importance of local arms production and military training, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s self-reliance strategy. This partnership aligns with Nigeria’s goal of bolstering its defense capabilities and improving its security infrastructure.

Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, highlighted these efforts after a meeting between President Bola Tinubu and China’s Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, at the Aso Rock Villa, Abuja. Wang Yi’s visit is part of his week-long Africa tour, which includes stops in Namibia, DR Congo, and Chad. Tuggar emphasized that working with global powers like China would enable Nigeria to locally produce military equipment, reducing dependence on foreign suppliers. He expressed that timely procurement of military supplies was crucial, especially when frontline troops urgently require resources.

Tuggar also reiterated that Nigeria’s military leadership, including the Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa, is committed to enhancing arms production domestically, citing delays caused by long procurement processes and excessive regulations. According to General Musa, recruiting skilled citizens to produce firearms and military-grade equipment locally is a critical step toward self-sufficiency in defense. This initiative is seen as vital in accelerating Nigeria’s response to security challenges and advancing its national defense agenda.

Nigeria’s security strategy emphasizes independence from private military companies and foreign intervention, a stance reinforced by Tuggar. He emphasized the country’s leadership in the West African region, particularly in the Sahel, stressing that regional challenges should be addressed through local cooperation. Tuggar underscored Nigeria’s role as a responsible actor in Africa, highlighting its commitment to constitutional governance and peace-building efforts.

Meanwhile, China has shown strong support for Africa’s security and sovereignty. During his visit, Foreign Minister Wang Yi reaffirmed China’s opposition to foreign interference in Africa’s internal matters. He announced a CN¥1bn military assistance package, which includes training for 6,000 military personnel and 1,000 police officers from various African countries. The Chinese government also emphasized its support for the African Standby Force and rapid response forces, reinforcing its commitment to enhancing Africa’s peace and security capacity.

In addition to military support, China expressed its willingness to expand financial cooperation with Nigeria. Wang Yi responded positively to President Tinubu’s request to increase the currency swap agreement between the two countries, which was initially set at CN¥15bn in 2018. This currency swap is aimed at reducing Nigeria’s reliance on the US dollar and strengthening trade relations.

Furthermore, both nations reaffirmed their support for Nigeria’s bid for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council. China’s support for Nigeria’s increased role in global affairs, including its participation in BRICS and advocacy for Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala’s second term as the Director-General of the World Trade Organization, demonstrates the growing diplomatic ties between the two countries.

Both Nigeria and China are committed to ensuring peace, stability, and development in Africa. Their partnership aims to create a more secure and prosperous future, with both countries working together to address regional challenges. With mutual goals of improving defense capabilities, fostering economic growth, and enhancing cooperation, the collaboration between Nigeria and China will likely play a significant role in shaping Africa’s security landscape in the years to come.

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