The Russian government has expressed readiness to share its latest counter-terrorism strategies with Nigeria, aimed at supporting the country’s ongoing fight against insurgency and violent extremism.
This commitment was disclosed by the Director of Defence Information, Brig.-Gen. Tukur Gusau, following a visit by Russian envoy Lt.-Gen. Andrei Averianov to Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, in Abuja on Monday.
According to Gusau, Averianov stated that Russia had developed advanced counter-terrorism tactics through special operations conducted in 39 countries and was eager to collaborate with Nigeria by sharing its experience and methods.
Highlighting the shift in global security dynamics since World War II, Averianov emphasized the need for international cooperation to combat modern threats like Boko Haram and Al-Qaeda. He also reaffirmed Russia’s willingness to supply Nigeria with a full range of military equipment required for counter-terrorism operations.
In response, Gen. Musa thanked the Russian delegation on behalf of President Bola Tinubu and the Nigerian Armed Forces. He underscored the longstanding ties between both nations and called for deeper collaboration in training, intelligence sharing, and operational support.
Musa stressed the importance of expanding training for Nigeria’s Army, Navy, and Air Force, especially in special operations. He requested assistance in maintaining unserviceable Russian-made equipment and asked for the deployment of Russian experts or the option to transport the equipment to Russia for repairs.
He further appealed for improved intelligence cooperation, particularly insights gained by Russia from its activities in the Sahel region. Musa also acknowledged Russia’s recent delivery of military equipment and technical experts, expressing appreciation for the fulfillment of prior commitments.
