Nigeria, EU Finalise Modalities For €20m Defence Support Package
Oru Leonard
The Federal Government and the European Union (EU) have commenced final discussions on the delivery of a €20 million defence support package aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s military capabilities and supporting ongoing counterterrorism operations.
The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), disclosed this when he received a delegation of the European External Action Service (EEAS), led by Ms. Claire Gaudin, at the Ministry of Defence Headquarters, Ship House, Abuja.
The package, granted to Nigeria under the European Peace Facility (EPF), represents the EU’s first-ever bilateral defence support package to the country.
Musa, who welcomed the assistance sealed in October 2026, said it would significantly enhance the operational capabilities of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, particularly in counterterrorism operations within the Lake Chad Basin.
He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to developing indigenous defence capabilities and achieving self-sufficiency in military equipment and technology.
The Minister urged the EU to build on the momentum generated by the recently concluded Africa Defence Exhibition (AFRIDEX) by supporting the establishment of local defence production lines in Nigeria.
He also reiterated Nigeria’s determination to track and dismantle terrorist financing networks across the world, irrespective of where they operate.
According to him, although the current phase of the EPF support focuses on non-lethal military equipment, technical training and maintenance, Nigeria is hopeful that subsequent phases will accommodate critical areas such as military medical support and advanced surveillance capabilities.
Earlier, Gaudin, who is the Head of the European Peace Facility at the EEAS, 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.
She explained that the priority areas were jointly identified and agreed upon with the leadership of the Armed Forces of Nigeria following extensive bilateral consultations.
Gaudin noted that Nigeria is among more than 20 African countries benefiting from the facility, which has 30 beneficiaries globally.
She added that the assistance would complement wider regional stabilisation efforts, particularly operations under the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF).
The meeting also explored opportunities for deeper cooperation between Nigeria and the EU in maritime security, particularly in the Gulf of Guinea.
Established in March 2021 by the 27 EU member states for the 2021–2027 financial cycle, the European Peace Facility is an off-budget financial instrument designed to strengthen the capacity of partner countries’ armed forces to prevent conflicts, build peace and promote international security.
(MOD Press)
