In a show of growing defence cooperation, Russia has pledged to support Nigeria’s counterterrorism efforts with weapons, strategic expertise, and operational assistance. The commitment was made during a high-level visit by Lieutenant General Andrei Averianov, Representative of Russian President Vladimir Putin, to Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, in Abuja on Monday.

According to the Defence Headquarters, the visit marks a significant step in Nigeria-Russia defence relations, as both countries look to deepen collaboration in the face of evolving security threats.

Lt Gen Averianov, speaking on behalf of President Putin and Russia’s Minister of Defence, described Nigeria as a key regional force and strategic ally. He praised Nigeria’s resilience in confronting insurgency and expressed Russia’s readiness to contribute meaningfully to those efforts—particularly through the supply of advanced weaponry, counterterrorism training, and intelligence sharing.

“Russia has faced its own challenges, currently engaged in special operations against 39 adversarial nations,” Averianov said. “We’ve developed new methods in counterinsurgency and are prepared to share this knowledge with Nigeria as we stand together against global terror threats like Boko Haram and Al-Qaeda.”

The Russian delegation was warmly received at Defence Headquarters, with General Musa welcoming the partnership on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Nigerian Armed Forces.

General Musa highlighted the long-standing ties between the two nations and stressed the need for expanded defence cooperation. He called for enhanced training programs, joint special operations initiatives, and improved maintenance for Russian-made military equipment already in Nigeria’s arsenal.

“There’s an urgent need for support in areas such as special forces training, equipment upgrades, and maritime capabilities, including fast attack craft and amphibious units,” Musa said. “We also seek Russia’s help in servicing and repairing several inoperable platforms and military systems currently in Nigeria.”

He further proposed the exchange of military instructors and students between both countries to foster stronger defence knowledge-sharing.

Russia, in turn, committed not just to supplying military equipment but also deploying technical experts to assist with installation, testing, and maintenance. Lt Gen Averianov affirmed that the delivery of equipment and expert teams was a fulfilment of Russia’s promise to Nigeria.

General Musa concluded by thanking the Russian delegation for their commitment and direct engagement. He noted that stronger intelligence sharing and operational coordination would be crucial as Nigeria continues to battle insurgency and criminal networks, particularly in the Sahel corridor.

The visit signals a renewed chapter in Nigeria-Russia defence ties—one built on shared experiences, mutual respect, and a united front against terrorism.


(Wafric News)