The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has debunked reports suggesting that Nigeria has permitted France to establish a military base within its territory.
Speaking on Friday during the unveiling of the Armed Forces of Nigeria 2025 Tattoo Logo at Defence Headquarters in Abuja, General Musa dismissed the claims as baseless. He clarified that President Bola Tinubu’s recent visit to France, during which several bilateral agreements were signed, did not include discussions about foreign military bases.
“Mr. President has made it very clear. Whatever agreements were signed are strictly on trade, culture, tradition, cooperation, and economic matters,” Musa stated. “Nothing like a foreign military base. Mr. President knows the implications and is committed to protecting Nigeria. He will never allow any foreign entity to establish military bases here.”
The Defense Chief highlighted that while Nigeria maintains bilateral partnerships, including joint military training and officer exchanges, establishing a foreign military base is not part of the current administration’s plans.
Musa used the opportunity to emphasize Nigeria’s commitment to sovereignty, assuring Nigerians that the Armed Forces remain dedicated to safeguarding the nation’s independence and security.
