Nigeria to Collaborate with China on Domestic Production of Military Equipment to Address Delays
The Nigerian government has announced plans to collaborate with China to domestically produce military equipment, aiming to reduce delays caused by dependence on foreign suppliers.
The Chinese government has expressed its support for Nigeria’s initiative to issue panda bonds in China, part of a broader currency swap arrangement. This was revealed during a joint press briefing held on Thursday between Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, and his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. Minister Wang Yi was visiting Nigeria on an official tour.
Regarding foreign interference, Tuggar emphasized that private military companies, regardless of their origin, are not the solution to Nigeria’s security challenges. He noted that Nigeria has consistently been a leader in promoting peace and security in Africa, and has achieved success through partnerships with both regional and global powers.
He further stated, “Our success in leading peace initiatives comes from genuine collaboration with other nations. Nigeria is a key player on the continent, and it is essential for us to address our challenges on our terms, without external entities stepping in to resolve our issues.”
The Minister also spoke on Nigeria’s intent to collaborate with countries like China to localize the production of both kinetic and non-kinetic military equipment. By doing so, Nigeria seeks to avoid the delays often associated with international procurement, including the complex regulations involved. “We aim to strengthen our ability to produce military equipment locally,” he added.
Tuggar highlighted that Nigeria operates responsibly within its constitutional framework and has never shown expansionist tendencies. This approach, he argued, has earned the country the trust of other nations, particularly in matters of leadership. Nigeria will continue to partner with countries like China to address security concerns while ensuring that private military companies and foreign interference remain absent from the equation.
Meanwhile, the Chinese Minister of Foreign Affairs, Wang Yi, expressed satisfaction with the recent developments in Sino-Nigerian relations, which have reached new heights under the strategic guidance of Presidents Xi Jinping and Bola Tinubu. Wang highlighted three major outcomes of this growing partnership: the elevation of China-Nigeria relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership, the establishment of a new platform through the first plenary session of the Intergovernmental Committee, and closer cooperation in international and regional affairs.
Wang emphasized that the China-Nigeria relationship has set a strong example of South-South cooperation and remains a model for Africa-China relations. He expressed confidence that the strategic partnership will continue to grow, benefitting both nations and contributing to the development of the Global South.
In terms of financial cooperation, Wang Yi welcomed Nigeria’s plans to issue panda bonds in China, expressing confidence in Nigeria’s economic stability. He assured that the country’s efforts would contribute to Nigeria’s infrastructure development and financial growth.
Lastly, regarding the proposed currency swap agreement, Wang stated that the Chinese government would carefully consider Nigeria’s request to expand the currency swap line. The collaboration has already contributed positively to Nigeria’s financial progress, and China remains committed to supporting Nigeria’s economic development.
