The Federal Government of Nigeria and the European Union have started the process of finalizing a €20m military support package to enhance the operational capacity of the Armed Forces of Nigeria in counterterrorism operations. This was disclosed by the Minister of Defence, Gen Christopher Musa, when he received a delegation from the European External Action Service, led by Claire Gaudin, at the Ministry of Defence headquarters in Abuja. The package is granted under the EU's European Peace Facility.
The €20m military support package is the EU's first-ever bilateral defence support to Nigeria, approved in October 2026. According to Gen Musa, the assistance will significantly strengthen the operational capabilities of Nigerian troops, particularly in ongoing counterterrorism operations within the Lake Chad Basin. The support package focuses on non-lethal equipment, technical training, and maintenance, with optimism that subsequent phases will accommodate military medical support and advanced surveillance capabilities.
Gen Musa reaffirmed Nigeria's commitment to developing indigenous defence capabilities and achieving self-sufficiency in military equipment and production. He urged the EU to leverage the recently concluded Africa Defence Exhibition to establish local defence production lines in Nigeria. Additionally, he stressed Nigeria's determination to track and dismantle terrorist financing networks globally, irrespective of where they operate.
Claire Gaudin stated that the €20m package will provide counter-improvised explosive device equipment, counter-unmanned aircraft systems, night vision capabilities, and individual protective gear for troops deployed in operational theatres. The priority areas were jointly identified and agreed upon with the leadership of the Armed Forces of Nigeria after extensive bilateral consultations.
Nigeria is among more than 20 African countries benefiting from the European Peace Facility, which has 30 beneficiaries globally. Gaudin added that the assistance will complement broader regional stabilisation efforts under the Multinational Joint Task Force. The delegation and the minister also discussed opportunities for deeper cooperation in maritime security, particularly in the Gulf of Guinea.
The European Peace Facility was established by the 27 EU member states in March 2021 as an off-budget financial instrument for the 2021–2027 financial cycle. It is designed to strengthen the capacity of partner countries' armed forces to prevent conflicts, build peace, and enhance international security. Gen Musa welcomed the bilateral assistance, noting it will significantly bolster the operational capabilities of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
The finalization of the €20m military support deal is a significant step in strengthening Nigeria's counterterrorism operations. The support package will enhance the operational capabilities of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, particularly in the Lake Chad Basin. The collaboration between Nigeria and the EU demonstrates a commitment to regional stabilisation and international security.
Key points
- The €20m military support package is the EU's first-ever bilateral defence support to Nigeria.
- The assistance will significantly strengthen the operational capabilities of Nigerian troops in counterterrorism operations.
- Nigeria is among more than 20 African countries benefiting from the European Peace Facility.
