# Nigeria, Russia deepens military cooperations

- Link: https://www.military.africa/2025/05/nigeria-russia-deepens-military-cooperations/
- Published: 2025-05-16T08:29:37+01:00
- Author: Adesogan Ayodeji

On Saturday 10th May 2025 during a bilateral meeting with General Christopher Musa,
Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, a Russian envoy described Nigeria as a strategic
partner, citing its large population and key regional role.

The envoy expressed satisfaction with [Nigeria’s willingness to collaborate on military and defense technology](https://www.military.africa/2021/11/nigerian-army-seeks-russian-hardware-to-beat-insecurities/),
saying, “We support Nigeria’s efforts to strengthen its national armed forces and
ensure regional security.” General Musa appreciated Russia’s support, including 
the donation of weapons and drones to combat terrorism in Nigeria and the Sahel 
region. The meeting, attended by top defense officials, aimed to discuss current
defense priorities and pledge continued support.

Both sides are expected to finalize agreements enhancing training, logistics, arms
supply, and intelligence-sharing in the fight against terrorism. General Musa praised
Russia’s reliability, stating, “You don’t just make promises, you fulfill them”,
the Nigeria’s CDS further Gen Musa, appreciated Russian Government for their support
and commitment to the Armed Forces of Nigeria and for inviting him and his for the
80th victory military parade.

The Nigerian Defence Chief’s visit to Russia is seen as a significant step in consolidating
military cooperation between the two countries. Both nations are expected to [finalize agreements](https://www.military.africa/2019/10/counter-insurgency-nigeria-and-russia-to-sign-military-cooperation/)
enhancing training, logistics, arms supply, and intelligence-sharing in the fight
against terrorism. [Improved military ties with Russia](https://www.military.africa/2021/08/army-2021-nigeria-and-russia-signs-military-technical-cooperation-agreement/)
are expected to bolster Nigeria’s defence capabilities, enabling the country to 
better address security challenges in the region.

As a key player in West Africa, Nigeria’s strengthened defence partnership with 
Russia has implications for regional stability and security.

ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT

By Deji Adesogan, A Security Analyst and Digital Communications Expert, can be reached
via [@DejiAdesogan](https://x.com/DejiAdesogan) on X or adesoganmedia@gmail.com

ADVERTISEMENT

### _Related_