The Russian government has expressed readiness to assist Nigeria in strengthening its counter-terrorism operations by sharing newly developed tactics and strategies.
This commitment was revealed in a statement issued on Monday following a courtesy visit by Lt.-Gen. Andrei Averianov, Russia’s envoy, to Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, in Abuja.
During the meeting, Mr Averianov highlighted that Russia had engaged in special military operations across 39 countries, through which it had formulated advanced counter-terrorism methods.
He stated that Russia was eager to share these methods with Nigeria to bolster its efforts against terrorism.
The statement recalled that while Russia’s historical battle against Nazism took place 80 years ago, modern threats have shifted towards asymmetric dangers posed by groups such as Al-Qaeda and Boko Haram.
Mr Averianov conveyed Russia’s satisfaction in contributing to a more secure future for Nigeria’s coming generations.
He reaffirmed Moscow’s commitment to Nigeria’s security efforts, acknowledging Nigeria’s vital role as a regional leader.
“We have been watching and learning from Nigeria’s counter-terrorism experience.
“As brothers in arms, we are ready to assist, particularly with the provision of the full range of weapons required by the Armed Forces of Nigeria to prosecute its war on terror,” Mr Averianov stated.
In response, General Musa welcomed the Russian delegation on behalf of President Bola Tinubu and Nigeria’s military leadership.
He acknowledged the difficult periods both countries were enduring, marked by personnel losses and the necessity for special operations.
General Musa expressed gratitude for Russia’s willingness to offer support, highlighting the longstanding relationship between the two nations.
He emphasised the importance of strengthening collaboration, particularly in training and military operations.
“For the Nigerian Army, Navy, and Air Force, there is the need to expand training in Special Operations and provision of requisite equipment, special boats, fast attack craft and amphibious training.
Others include the need for assistance in the maintenance of Russian platforms and the provision of air surveillance, respectively,” Musa said.
He pointed out that many Russian-made platforms used by Nigeria’s military were currently inoperable, calling for technical assistance through the supply of spare parts and the deployment of Russian engineers for on-site maintenance or arrangements for repairs to be conducted in Russia.
Additionally, General Musa appealed for enhanced intelligence sharing, citing Russia’s extensive operational experience, particularly in the Sahel region, as an invaluable resource for Nigeria’s security forces.