In a significant boost to Nigeria’s security framework, the Chinese government has committed CN¥1bn (approximately $150 million) in military aid to Nigeria and other African nations.
This grant is part of a larger cooperation initiative that includes training over 7,000 military and law enforcement personnel, addressing Africa’s pressing security challenges.
Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, revealed the news after a meeting between President Bola Tinubu and China’s Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, at the Aso Rock Villa in Abuja.
The minister emphasized that the collaboration with China is aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s domestic defense capabilities, focusing on both kinetic and non-kinetic military equipment production.
Tuggar articulated that the goal is to localize arms production to eliminate the delays and red tape associated with international procurement, which has often hampered military operations.
This strategy aligns with the Nigerian military’s efforts to overcome the bottleneck in arms procurement, as previously pointed out by General Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff.
The support from China will include the training of 6,000 military personnel and 1,000 police officers across African nations.
The aid also extends to bolstering the African Standby Force and rapid response teams, all critical components of Africa’s security apparatus.
China’s commitment also underscores its stance against foreign interference in Africa’s security matters.
Minister Wang Yi reaffirmed China’s support for African-led peacekeeping efforts, offering resources to enhance the continent’s peace and security infrastructure.
He also expressed China’s firm opposition to foreign military intervention in Africa, championing a model of self-reliance for African nations.
In addition to military support, Wang Yi addressed financial cooperation between China and Nigeria, proposing further collaboration on economic issues such as the expansion of the bilateral currency swap agreement.
This initiative is seen as a pathway to reducing Nigeria’s dependence on the US dollar and bolstering trade between the two nations.
President Tinubu, speaking on behalf of Nigeria, welcomed the growing partnership, noting that Nigeria’s strategic position as a leader in West African security and stability will benefit from such bilateral efforts.
He urged China to support Nigeria’s bid for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council and increase its financial commitments to infrastructure development in Africa.
Wang Yi’s visit, part of a broader African tour, highlights China’s growing influence and commitment to strengthening ties with African nations, particularly in areas of security and economic cooperation.
The military grant and training initiative are part of China’s broader strategy to support African countries in tackling regional challenges through strengthened partnerships.
This new chapter in Nigeria-China relations marks a significant step toward enhancing Africa’s capacity to address its security issues locally and independently.