Emmanuel Daudu
The Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening defence and military cooperation between both nations.
The agreement was formalised on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, by authorised representatives of the two governments. Nigeria was represented by the Minister of State for Defence, H.E. Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, MON, while Saudi Arabia’s Assistant Minister of Defence for Executive Affairs, Dr. Khaled H. Al-Biyari, signed on behalf of the Kingdom.
Describing the development as a “significant milestone,” Dr. Matawalle said the MoU had been under consideration for some time, adding that its conclusion signals a major step forward for Nigeria’s defence architecture.
“It has been on the drawing board for some time, and its conclusion will strengthen Nigeria’s defence architecture and enhance the capacity of our armed forces,” he stated.
Under the terms of the agreement, the MoU will run for an initial period of five years, with provisions for review and renewal. Either party may also terminate the agreement by issuing a three-month written notice through diplomatic channels.
The cooperation framework covers multiple areas, including military training, joint exercises, intelligence exchange, technical assistance, logistics support, and other mutually agreed activities.
According to the Ministry of Defence, the partnership is expected to deliver substantial benefits to Nigeria, particularly in the areas of capacity building, operational readiness and counter-terrorism. It will provide expanded opportunities for professional military education, specialist courses and joint training to enhance the skills of Nigerian military personnel.
The MoU will also support improved interoperability among Nigeria’s armed forces through shared doctrine and joint operations, while strengthening ongoing efforts against terrorism, insurgency and organised crime through enhanced intelligence collaboration.
The Ministry described the agreement as a strategic tool that aligns with Nigeria’s long-term goals for defence modernization, national security and regional stability.
Africa Security Investigation News 