By DAYO ADESULU
The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced an intensified security collaboration with the People’s Republic of China, focusing on domestic arms production and advanced military training.
Key Developments
- Military Assistance Package
- China pledged CN¥1bn (approximately $137 million) in military assistance to Africa.
- Training for 6,000 military personnel and 1,000 police and law enforcement officers across African countries.
- Support for the African Standby Force and rapid response teams for counterterrorism and peacekeeping operations.
- Local Arms Production
- Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, highlighted the country’s desire to domesticate arms production.
- Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, emphasized this effort as a solution to procurement bottlenecks caused by lengthy regulations.
- Enhanced Bilateral Cooperation
- President Bola Tinubu met with China’s Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, to discuss deepening bilateral ties.
- Nigeria requested an expansion of the existing $2bn currency swap agreement and an upward review of the $50bn aid package for Africa announced by Chinese President Xi Jinping.
China’s Position
Wang Yi affirmed China’s commitment to:
- Strengthening Africa’s capacity for peace and security.
- Opposing external interference in African affairs.
- Supporting African-led solutions to regional challenges.
Wang stated,
“China will firmly support Africa in strengthening peace and security capacity building, advancing the Global Security Initiative, and safeguarding Africa’s legitimate rights and interests.”
Strategic Goals for Nigeria
President Tinubu emphasized:
- Increasing China-Nigeria currency swaps to reduce reliance on the US dollar and boost infrastructure projects.
- Enhancing strategic relations to address Nigeria’s development challenges.
- Advocating for Nigeria’s permanent seat on the UN Security Council, urging China to leverage its influence.
“We want you to use your influence to ensure Nigeria secures the seat. The bond between our nations should grow stronger and become unbreakable,” Tinubu said.
Next Steps
The partnership is expected to accelerate Nigeria’s self-reliance in arms production, improve regional security, and enhance economic ties between Nigeria and China. This collaboration signifies a shift towards African-led solutions with robust international support.
