Nigeria, Jordan Sign Defence Pact on Intelligence Sharing, Military Cooperation
Oru Leonard
Nigeria and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening defence cooperation, enhancing intelligence sharing, and deepening military collaboration between both nations.
The agreement was signed in Amman, Jordan, on May 10, 2026, by Nigeria’s Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, and Major General Yousef A. Alhnaity, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff of the Jordanian Armed Forces.
According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Defence on Thursday, the MoU establishes a framework for cooperation in key areas, including intelligence exchange, defence capability development, counter-terrorism operations, joint military training, defence research and industry, as well as mutual support for regional and global peace and security initiatives.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Matawalle described the agreement as a significant milestone in the growing bilateral relations between Nigeria and Jordan, noting that stronger defence partnerships are essential in addressing emerging security threats.
“Nigeria and Jordan recognise the value of mutually beneficial cooperation and remain committed to deepening defence ties to promote peace, security, and stability within our respective regions,” the minister said.
Matawalle also highlighted the importance of technology transfer under the agreement, particularly through the establishment of a defence production line in Nigeria in line with the provisions of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) Act.
He said the initiative would contribute to strengthening Nigeria’s indigenous defence manufacturing capacity and support the country’s broader efforts to achieve self-reliance in military equipment production.
The Ministry noted that the MoU reflects the commitment of both countries to build mutual trust, cooperate in good faith, and advance joint action on shared security priorities.
Analysts say the agreement is expected to bolster Nigeria’s efforts to tackle security challenges while expanding international defence partnerships and fostering knowledge exchange in military technology and strategic operations.
