By Helen Udo
Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), OFR, has led a high-level delegation to Beijing, China, to strengthen defence and security cooperation between Nigeria and China, with a focus on military modernisation and strategic partnership.
The visit is aimed at expanding bilateral defence relations, enhancing the operational capabilities of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN), and accelerating the country’s drive towards self-reliance in defence production.
In a statement signed by Leah Katung Babatunde, Special Assistant (Media) to the Honourable Minister of Defence stated that during engagements at the China Electronics Technology Group Corporation (CETC) Innovation Centre, the Minister highlighted Nigeria’s commitment to integrating emerging technologies and artificial intelligence into its national security architecture to tackle evolving security threats.
General Musa reaffirmed the Federal Government’s determination to transform Nigeria from a defence equipment consumer into a producer through the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), with emphasis on technology transfer and local manufacturing.
The delegation also visited the headquarters of China North Industries Corporation (NORINCO), where members inspected advanced military platforms, artillery systems, specialised ammunition, and other integrated defence solutions.
High-level bilateral discussions with NORINCO executives focused on establishing joint production lines in Nigeria, strengthening technical expertise, and facilitating technology transfer in partnership with DICON.
At the Nigerian Embassy in Beijing, Ambassador Lt. General Abdulrahman Dambazau (Rtd) welcomed the delegation and described the visit as a significant step towards deepening the strategic relationship between Nigeria and China.
The Ambassador pledged the Embassy’s full diplomatic support in ensuring the success of the mission and advancing Nigeria’s defence interests throughout the engagement.
General Musa also met with Defence Attachés and Embassy staff, commending their dedication to promoting Nigeria’s military diplomacy in Asia and encouraging them to continue representing the country with professionalism.
The week long mission is expected to deliver lasting benefits through enhanced military capability, improved logistics and supply chains, expanded local defence manufacturing, greater strategic self-reliance, and stronger Nigeria -China defence relations.
