The Governments of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the French Republic are pleased to announce a strengthened partnership in defense and security cooperation, building on the recent high-level dialogue between President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and President Emmanuel Macron.
In a constructive phone call, the two leaders addressed the ongoing security challenges facing Nigeria, particularly the persistent terrorist threats and violence in the northern regions. President Tinubu emphasized the need for intensified international collaboration to bolster Nigeria's counter-terrorism efforts and protect vulnerable communities.
President Macron reaffirmed France's solidarity and commitment to supporting Nigeria in confronting these shared regional threats.
As a direct outcome of this engagement, France will provide targeted military equipment and related assistance to enhance the operational capabilities of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
This support aligns with France's renewed focus on capacity-building, intelligence sharing, training, and equipment provision for partner nations combating extremism in West Africa, following its strategic repositioning in the region.
The assistance is expected to include advanced military hardware tailored to improve surveillance, mobility, and response effectiveness against non-state armed groups. Details of the specific equipment packages and delivery timelines will be finalized through ongoing technical discussions between the defense ministries of both countries.
This initiative complements existing bilateral efforts, including recent engagements between the Nigerian Army and French defense representatives, which have emphasized professional military training, intelligence exchange, and joint operational readiness.
Both leaders underscored that no country can remain a spectator in the face of rising insecurity, calling on other international partners to deepen their engagement.
President Tinubu expressed appreciation for France's responsive partnership, noting that such cooperation strengthens Nigeria's resolve to achieve lasting peace and stability. President Macron highlighted the mutual benefits of this collaboration in promoting regional security and protecting civilian populations.
The Governments of Nigeria and France remain committed to advancing this strategic alliance for the benefit of both nations and the broader West African region.