Nigeria to Receive Anti-Drone, Night Vision Equipment in €20m EU Support
Nigeria is set to receive anti-drone systems, night vision equipment and other military supplies under a €20 million defence support package from the European Union (EU).
The package is expected to strengthen the operational capabilities of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, particularly in ongoing counterterrorism operations in the Lake Chad Basin.
The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd.), disclosed this when he received a European Union delegation led by Ms Claire Gaudin at the Ministry of Defence Headquarters in Abuja.
According to a statement issued on Friday by the Minister’s Special Assistant on Media, Leah Katung-Babatunde, the meeting focused on finalising the delivery arrangements for the support package granted to Nigeria under the European Peace Facility (EPF).
The statement said the package would provide Counter-Improvised Explosive Device (C-IED) equipment, Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (C-UAS), night vision capabilities and individual protective gear for deployed Nigerian troops.
Speaking during the meeting, Musa welcomed the assistance, describing it as an important contribution to strengthening Nigeria’s defence capabilities and supporting ongoing military operations.
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He also called on the EU to build on the momentum of the recently concluded Africa Defence Exhibition (AFRIDEX) by supporting the establishment of local defence production lines in Nigeria.
The minister reaffirmed the country’s commitment to developing indigenous defence capabilities and achieving greater self-sufficiency in military equipment.
He further urged stronger international cooperation to identify and dismantle terrorist financing networks, regardless of where they operate.
Earlier, Gaudin, Head of the European Peace Facility at the European External Action Service, said the equipment priorities were jointly agreed upon with the leadership of the Nigerian Armed Forces following extensive bilateral consultations.
She noted that Nigeria was among more than 20 African countries benefiting from the facility, which has 30 beneficiaries globally.
The EU delegation also discussed broader security cooperation with Nigeria, including support for regional stabilisation efforts under the Multinational Joint Task Force and enhanced maritime security across the Gulf of Guinea.
The Minister expressed hope that subsequent phases of the programme would cover additional areas, including military medical support and advanced surveillance capabilities.
Established in March 2021 by the 27 EU member states, the European Peace Facility is designed to support partner countries in strengthening their defence capabilities, preventing conflicts and promoting international security.
By PRNigeria
