Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, announced the signing of a military agreement with Turkey aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s capacity to combat a long-running insurgency that has persisted for over 17 years.
The announcement came during Musa’s visit to Antalya, where he told Turkish media that both countries agreed to advance cooperation toward joint training and defense production, enhancing bilateral military ties.
Musa revealed that approximately 200 Nigerian special forces personnel will be deployed to Turkey for specialized training, as part of broader efforts to improve operational capabilities in addressing growing security threats.
Nigeria continues to battle the militant group Boko Haram, as well as Islamic State West Africa Province, a splinter faction, in addition to criminal gangs engaged in looting, killings, and kidnappings for ransom in the northwest.
The country is also affected by the worsening security situation across the Sahel region, which has broader implications for stability in West Africa. In response, Nigeria is seeking to diversify its security partnerships and reduce reliance on traditional allies such as the United States.
Musa’s visit follows Nigerian President Bola Tinubu’s trip to Ankara in late January—the first visit by a Nigerian head of state in nine years.
Turkey is widely recognized for its growing defense industry, particularly its cost-effective armed drones. Musa noted that Turkey has made significant advances in military production, adding that both countries have agreed to jointly manufacture certain defense components.