The Russian government has expressed readiness to share advanced counter-terrorism strategies and military equipment with Nigeria to bolster the fight against insurgent groups. The offer came during a meeting between Russian envoy Lt.-Gen. Andrei Averianov and Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Christopher Musa in Abuja on Monday.
According to a statement by Defence Spokesperson Brig.-Gen. Tukur Gusau, the Russian delegation highlighted their experience conducting special operations across 39 countries and developing new counter-terrorism methodologies. “We’re prepared to provide the full range of weapons required by Nigeria’s armed forces,” Averianov stated, noting Russia’s 80-year history combating asymmetric threats from Nazism to modern groups like Boko Haram.
Defence Chief Musa welcomed the cooperation, emphasizing Nigeria’s need for specialized training, equipment maintenance, and intelligence sharing. He specifically requested:
- Expanded training programs in special operations
- Provision of fast attack crafts and amphibious vessels
- Technical support for Russian-made military platforms currently non-operational
- Deployment of Russian experts for in-country equipment repairs
The meeting reinforced longstanding military ties between both nations, with Russia acknowledging Nigeria’s regional security leadership. Musa noted the timely offer comes as both countries face security challenges causing significant personnel losses.
This development follows recent security collaborations between both nations, including Russia’s delivery of promised military equipment and technical teams to Nigeria. The defence chiefs agreed to enhance instructor/student exchanges and operational partnerships to combat terrorism more effectively.
The talks occurred amid Nigeria’s intensified counter-terrorism operations and ongoing military engagements with foreign partners to address insurgency in the northeast and other security challenges nationwide.
