Nigeria, EU Seal €20m Defence Support Deal to Boost Counterterrorism Operations

Nigeria and the European Union (EU) have finalised arrangements for a €20 million defence support package aimed at strengthening the operational capabilities of the Nigerian Armed Forces, particularly in counterterrorism operations in the Lake Chad Basin.

The package, which represents the EU’s first bilateral defence support to Nigeria, is being provided under the European Peace Facility (EPF).

The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (retd.), disclosed this during a meeting with a delegation from the European External Action Service (EEAS), led by the Head of the European Peace Facility, Claire Gaudin, at the Ministry of Defence Headquarters, Ship House, Abuja.

According to a statement issued by the minister’s Special Assistant on Media, Leah Katung-Babatunde, the meeting focused on concluding arrangements for the delivery of the support package, which was agreed upon in October 2026.

Speaking during the meeting, Musa reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to developing indigenous defence capabilities and reducing dependence on foreign suppliers for military equipment and technology.

He welcomed the EU assistance, describing it as a significant boost to the operational effectiveness of Nigerian troops involved in security operations.

The minister also urged the European Union to build on the momentum generated by the recently concluded Africa Defence Exhibition (AFRIDEX) by supporting the establishment of local defence production facilities in Nigeria.

Musa further reiterated the Federal Government’s determination to identify and dismantle terrorist financing networks globally, regardless of where they operate.

He explained that the initial phase of the EU support would focus on non-lethal military equipment and supplies, technical training and maintenance.

The minister expressed optimism that subsequent phases of the partnership would extend to other critical areas, including military medical support and advanced surveillance capabilities.

Earlier, Gaudin said the €20 million package would provide counter-improvised explosive device (C-IED) equipment, counter-unmanned aircraft systems (C-UAS), night-vision capabilities and personal protective equipment for Nigerian troops deployed in operational theatres.

She explained that the priority areas were jointly identified and agreed upon with the leadership of the Nigerian Armed Forces following extensive bilateral consultations.

Gaudin added that Nigeria was among more than 20 African countries and 30 beneficiaries globally receiving assistance through the European Peace Facility.

She said the support would complement broader regional stabilisation efforts, particularly military operations conducted under the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF).

The two delegations also explored opportunities to deepen security cooperation in maritime operations, with particular emphasis on strengthening security across the Gulf of Guinea.

Established in March 2021 by the 27 member states of the European Union for the 2021–2027 financial cycle, the European Peace Facility is an off-budget funding instrument designed to support partner countries in preventing conflicts, building peace and strengthening international security.