The Russian government has expressed its willingness to share newly developed counterterrorism strategies with Nigeria to support its ongoing battle against terrorism and insurgency.
This commitment was revealed in a statement by the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier-General Tukur Gusau, on Monday in Abuja. He disclosed that the offer was made by Lt.-Gen. Andrei Averianov, a Russian envoy, during a courtesy visit to the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa.
According to Gusau, Averianov stated that Russia had acquired extensive experience through special operations conducted in 39 countries. These engagements, he said, enabled Russia to develop advanced methods and capabilities in dealing with asymmetric threats such as Al-Qaeda and Boko Haram.
“Russia is pleased to contribute to efforts aimed at securing a better future for the people of Nigeria,” Averianov was quoted as saying. “As brothers in arms, we are ready to assist with a full range of weapons and technical support needed by the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN).”
Averianov also recognised Nigeria’s pivotal role as a regional power and emphasized the importance of cooperation in counterterrorism. He further pledged Russia’s support through intelligence sharing, training programs, and logistical assistance.
Responding to the delegation, Gen. Musa welcomed the Russian team on behalf of President Bola Tinubu and the Nigerian military. He noted that both nations were confronting complex security challenges that have led to the loss of personnel and the need for intensified operations.
The CDS emphasized the historical military ties between Nigeria and Russia and called for stronger partnerships, particularly in areas such as special operations training, equipment provision, and maintenance of Russian-made military platforms used by Nigerian forces.
“For our Army, Navy, and Air Force, there is an urgent need to expand training in special operations, procure fast attack craft and amphibious equipment, and enhance air surveillance capabilities,” Musa said.
He also highlighted the need for spare parts and technical support to maintain Nigeria’s existing Russian-made platforms. He requested that Russian experts either be deployed to Nigeria for maintenance or that equipment be sent back to Russia for repairs.
The CDS concluded by thanking the Russian delegation for their hands-on approach in delivering equipment and deploying experts to assist with testing. “The Russian Federation has fulfilled its promises to Nigeria,” Gusau quoted him as saying.
The renewed cooperation is expected to bolster Nigeria’s counterterrorism capacity and deepen strategic military ties between the two nations.
