Nigeria and Türkiye have reached an agreement to establish a military training facility in Nigeria as part of a broader defence partnership aimed at strengthening the country’s security architecture.

The agreement was finalised during bilateral discussions between Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, and his Turkish counterpart, Yasar Guler, on the sidelines of the Antalya Diplomacy Forum 2026.

According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Defence, the proposed facility will serve as a long term centre for capacity development. Nigeria has identified a coastal location for the permanent site, while a temporary facility will be used to commence operations.

Under the arrangement, personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces will receive specialised training in Special Forces operations, counterterrorism, intelligence integration, counter drone and counter improvised explosive device operations, as well as United Nations pre deployment exercises. An initial group of personnel is also expected to undergo training in Türkiye, including language instruction and field exercises.

The partnership extends beyond training to include technology transfer, defence industry collaboration, and joint development of military capabilities. Both countries also agreed to deepen cooperation in surveillance systems, unmanned platforms, and satellite enabled monitoring to address evolving security threats.

In addition, the agreement covers enhanced border management, intelligence sharing, and coordinated responses to non state actors, alongside support for disarmament and reintegration programmes for former combatants.

The deal also includes plans to strengthen the operational capacity of the Nigerian Air Force through improved maintenance systems, logistics, and training, with potential acquisition of helicopters and unmanned systems under consideration. Naval cooperation is also expected, focusing on maritime training and possible acquisition of platforms to enhance maritime security.

Musa described the outcome of the discussions as a significant step in Nigeria’s defence relations with Türkiye, expressing confidence in the implementation of the agreements.

Nigeria has continued to expand its defence partnerships in response to evolving security challenges, including terrorism and banditry, with the latest agreement seen as part of efforts to strengthen national security capacity.