Nigeria Eyes Defence Breakthrough with Pakistan: Drones, Local Arms, and Strategic Military Alliance in the Works

In a strategic move to modernize and strengthen its military capabilities, the Federal Government of Nigeria is seeking closer collaboration with the Pakistani Armed Forces, signaling a new chapter in global defence partnerships.

The initiative was announced during a high-level meeting between Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Badaru Abubakar, and a delegation from Pakistan, led by General Shahir Shamsad, held at the Defence Headquarters (Ship House), Abuja. The discussion focused on developing joint military strategies, boosting local arms manufacturing, and leveraging Pakistan’s expertise in drone technology and counter-terrorism operations.

According to a statement released on Friday by the Minister’s Personal Assistant on Media and Publicity, Mr. Mati Ali, the Nigerian government sees this partnership as a critical step toward reducing dependency on foreign arms and bolstering local innovation in military hardware.

“Pakistan has effectively addressed terrorism and IED threats using homegrown tech and affordable drones — something Nigeria can greatly learn from,” Abubakar remarked.

What This Means for Nigeria’s Defence Sector

The collaboration is expected to unlock:

• Technology transfer in drone systems and surveillance

• Enhanced support for the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON)

• Joint innovation projects aimed at self-sufficiency in military hardware

• Deeper military ties rooted in mutual respect and strategic trust

Minister Abubakar emphasized the need for non-coercive, transparent partnerships that prioritize Nigeria’s interests and sovereignty. He noted that Nigeria, as a regional power in Africa, shares many strategic goals with Pakistan, especially in the areas of counter-insurgency and defence development.

“This is about building a sustainable, independent, and innovative defence ecosystem in Nigeria,” he said.

Both nations reaffirmed their shared commitment to combatting global threats and advancing regional stability through collaboration, innovation, and diplomacy.