The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, today received Lieutenant General Andrei Averianov, Representative of the President of the Russian Federation, on a courtesy visit at Defence Headquarters, Abuja.
The visit underscores strengthening military ties between Nigeria and Russia amid global and regional security challenges.
Details of the visit was disclosed by Defence spokesman, Brig. General Tukur Gusau.
Lt. Gen. Averianov, leading the Russian delegation, described the meeting as a historic moment, expressing gratitude for the warm hospitality extended by the Nigerian Armed Forces. Reflecting on Russia’s past experiences, he recalled the country’s 80-year legacy in fighting Nazism and noted the evolution of security threats, such as Al-Qaeda and Boko Haram.
Highlighting Russia’s engagement in special operations involving 39 adversary nations, Averianov pledged to share newly developed strategies and technologies with Nigeria to bolster its counterterrorism operations. On behalf of President Vladimir Putin and the Russian Minister of Defence, he reaffirmed Russia’s commitment to supporting Nigeria, recognizing its strategic importance in regional security.
The Russian envoy further stated that Russia had carefully observed Nigeria’s counterinsurgency efforts over the years and was ready to deepen military cooperation, particularly in providing a comprehensive range of weapons, enhancing special operations capabilities, and improving military platforms.
In his remarks, General Musa welcomed the delegation on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Nigerian Armed Forces.
He emphasized the enduring relationship between Nigeria and Russia and called for expanded collaboration, particularly in specialized training, maintenance of Russian military equipment, and intelligence sharing.
The CDS highlighted urgent needs for special operations training, acquisition of fast attack craft, amphibious training, and maintenance support for existing Russian-made military platforms.
He appealed for assistance with spare parts, expert deployment for on-site maintenance, and where necessary, arrangements to return unserviceable equipment to Russia for repairs.
General Musa also underscored the importance of intelligence exchange, noting the valuable operational experience Russia has gained, especially in the Sahel region.
He thanked the Russian delegation for personally delivering equipment and providing technical teams for testing and maintenance, acknowledging Russia’s fulfillment of its military commitments to Nigeria.