FG, China to Partner on Local Production of Military Equipment 

By Toba Owojaiye,

Abuja, Nigeria

In a strategic move to strengthen Nigeria’s self-reliance in defense production, the Federal Government has announced plans to collaborate with China in the local manufacturing of military equipment. This partnership is aimed at eliminating the delays and dependencies associated with procuring military hardware from foreign nations.

Truth Live News gathered that the august announcement came during a joint press briefing held at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, where Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, hosted his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, who was on an official visit to Nigeria.

Tackling Security Challenges Locally

Ambassador Tuggar emphasized Nigeria’s stance against external interference in Africa’s affairs, particularly through private military companies.

He stated, “Nigeria has consistently proved effective in leading other countries in our region, and I would even say, on the continent at large, in addressing challenges to peace and security. Where we have a problem is whenever Nigeria is left out of such arrangements. It becomes more challenging.”

Reiterating the nation’s commitment to regional leadership, Tuggar added, “Let us shun this idea of allowing others to come in to solve our problems for us. Private military companies, as far as we are concerned, will not provide the panacea. But when you work with us, we’re able to lead others in solving the problem.”

He highlighted the importance of domesticating the production of both kinetic and non-kinetic military equipment, noting, “This is what we’re looking for, so that we don’t have to go out looking to procure because of the delays and so many rules and regulations. We need to be able to produce locally.”

China-Nigeria Partnership

Wang Yi, China’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, lauded the burgeoning relationship between the two nations, stating that the strategic collaboration reflects the vision of President Xi Jinping and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“Our presidents jointly announced the elevation of China-Nigeria relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership,” Wang said. He highlighted three key achievements of the bilateral relationship:

– Elevation of Relations: China-Nigeria ties have been upgraded to a comprehensive strategic partnership.

– New Platforms of Cooperation: The first plenary session of the Intergovernmental Committee has strengthened cooperation between both nations.

– International Coordination: The two countries have aligned efforts in international and regional affairs, championing the interests of the Global South.

Wang stressed the need for enduring friendship between China and Nigeria, adding, “Over more than half a century since the establishment of diplomatic ties, China and Nigeria have always, in the spirit of mutual respect and equality, deepened our friendship and pursued practical cooperation.”

In addition to defense collaboration, Nigeria’s plan to float Panda Bonds—sovereign bonds denominated in Chinese yuan—was discussed. This move is part of Nigeria’s currency swap policy with China, aimed at boosting bilateral trade and reducing reliance on the US dollar.

Tuggar reaffirmed Nigeria’s constitutional commitment to peace and stability, rejecting expansionist tendencies. “Nigeria is a very responsible country working with the Constitution. And we’ve never had any expansionist tendencies, which is why others repose so much confidence in us and in our leadership,” he said.

The partnership with China is expected to bolster Nigeria’s capacity to address its security challenges while reaffirming its position as a leader in African affairs.

While this partnership marks a significant leap towards self-reliance in defense, critics may question the feasibility of localizing production and the broader economic implications of Nigeria’s increasing reliance on China. Public sentiment remains cautiously optimistic, as Nigerians anticipate tangible outcomes from the collaboration.

This development highlights the importance of balancing foreign partnerships with national interests, particularly as Nigeria continues to navigate complex regional and global dynamics.