Security boost as Turkey steps In to train Nigerian special forces

Turkey has reportedly pledged to train 200 Nigerian special forces soldiers as part of efforts aimed at enhancing the defence capabilities of Nigeria.

This was revealed by the Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, stating that the move is one of the bilateral security engagements of both nations.

As per reports from Musa, there were extensive talks with the Turkish counterpart, Yaşar Güler, regarding this plan.

These revelations came on the side of the Antalya Diplomacy Forum (ADF2026), an event attended by leaders of the globe who discussed matters related to security and diplomacy.

“Also, we signed a special forces training agreement. Turkey has agreed to train our soldiers in this aspect, giving us 200 special forces. We are going to send them here very soon,” the minister was quoted as saying.

“There will be joint defence exercises and production of defence equipment as well. The first exercise will come up later this year. In all spheres of defence, we will work together.”

Musa went further to state that Nigeria and Turkey will also cooperate in joint military equipment production and the transfer of military technology.

“The meeting with the Turkish Minister of Defence was successful, and we exchanged a lot of ideas in improving relations with regard to defense.”

“Turkish has greatly developed with respect to the manufacturing of military equipment.”

“Nigeria is not at that stage yet, but we have agreed to work together in making such a joint production.”

Minister Musa listed their common fight against terrorism as a justification for the two countries’ collaboration.

“We have decided to work together on training, manufacture of equipment and defense as well as exchange of officers and soldiers,” he continued.

Turkey is set to be a strategic partner in Nigeria’s fight against terrorism.

During President Bola Tinubu’s state visit to Turkey in January, Nigeria and Turkey signed nine agreements which included defense collaboration.

The next month, Turkish ambassador to Nigeria, Mehmet Poroy stated that Turkey is prepared to establish further military relations with Nigeria due to the fact that they face common problems such as terrorism.

Poroy stated that Turkey will share all its resources with Nigeria.