President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has disclosed that Nigeria has secured France’s support for military equipment and training following a recent phone conversation with French President Emmanuel Macron.
Tinubu made this known on Sunday during a meeting with state governors at his residence in Ikoyi, Lagos, where he observed the Eid-el-Fitr holidays after returning from his two-day state visit to the United Kingdom.
According to the President, the collaboration forms part of broader efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s security capacity amid rising threats. He noted that discussions with Macron focused on securing military equipment and training support to combat terrorism.
“I can report to you, yesterday again, at a lengthy discussion with Emmanuel Macron, their collaboration with us for equipment and support,” Tinubu said, adding that Nigeria is exploring partnerships with other countries and is prepared to utilise its credit lines and diplomatic goodwill.
He described insecurity as a major challenge confronting his administration, stressing the need for collective action to overcome it. Tinubu emphasised that insecurity remains a critical obstacle to development and prosperity, expressing confidence that state governors understand the urgency of the situation.
The meeting followed recent security concerns, including the deadly bomb blasts in Maiduguri, which left several people dead and many others injured. In response, the President had directed security chiefs to relocate to the area and approved additional operational support.
Vice President Kashim Shettima also visited victims at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, assuring Nigerians of increased government investment in security logistics and equipment.
Tinubu’s remarks come shortly after his diplomatic engagements in the UK, where he met with King Charles III, Queen Camilla, and Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The discussions focused on strengthening bilateral ties and enhancing cooperation on security.
The President also acknowledged that global developments, particularly tensions in the Middle East, could drive inflation and affect Nigeria’s economy. He urged governors to prioritise support for vulnerable citizens while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to defeating terrorism through sustained investment in technology and security infrastructure.
