Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
ABUJA, Nigeria — Facing mounting insecurity across multiple regions, the Federal Government has formally sought assistance from the Republic of Turkey as part of its intensified efforts to curb insurgency, banditry and other violent threats confronting the nation. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu disclosed the appeal during a meeting with leaders of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), emphasising the urgent need for enhanced security cooperation as Nigeria battles expansive ungoverned spaces and evolving criminal tactics.
Addressing CAN officials at his Lagos residence, Tinubu acknowledged that Nigeria’s security landscape remains “challenging” despite ongoing efforts by the nation’s armed forces and security agencies. He pointed to the size of Nigeria’s territory and the resource intensity required to modernise its military hardware as key factors in the government’s decision to seek external partnerships. The president said that while community and state police reforms are underway, military equipment — including aircraft and surveillance systems — is expensive and often not readily available off the shelf, prompting the outreach to international partners such as Turkey.
Tinubu noted that the government has already placed orders for new equipment, including attack helicopters from the United States, but acknowledged that delivery delays and procurement complexities necessitate complementary arrangements with other allies. “We have approached Turkey for assistance,” he said, pointing to the need for diversified support amid a rapidly deteriorating security environment.
The appeal to Ankara comes amid broader cooperation efforts between Nigeria and Turkey that have evolved over several years. Previous engagement included Turkish defence exports and military technology transfers, notably the acquisition and planned delivery of Turkish‑manufactured T‑129 ATAK attack helicopters and other tactical equipment to bolster the Nigerian Air Force’s counterinsurgency capabilities, as well as personnel training on Turkish platforms and technology integration.
Nigeria’s overture to Turkey also aligns with growing calls from influential voices within the country’s security and religious sectors for diversified partnerships. Prominent Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, for instance, has criticised recent U.S. military involvement in Nigeria and urged the government to pursue relations with what he describes as more “neutral countries” such as Turkey, China and Pakistan, arguing that such alternatives could offer effective support without concerns about political or cultural implications.
Turkey’s expanding role in Nigeria and across Africa reflects Ankara’s broader diplomatic and defence outreach on the continent, where it has sought to strengthen military ties, mediate conflicts and participate in joint security initiatives with African partners. Analysts say that Turkey’s growing influence in African security affairs positions it as an attractive partner for nations like Nigeria seeking versatile cooperation arrangements beyond traditional alliances.
Despite the government’s overtures, some commentators caution that external assistance must complement, not replace, Nigeria’s own capacity building efforts. Security experts stress the importance of integrating foreign support with domestic reforms — including intelligence sharing, community policing, welfare improvements and the expansion of state and local law enforcement frameworks — to achieve sustainable peace and security.
As the Federal Government presses forward with its outreach to Turkey and other partners, the focus will remain on translating diplomatic engagements into practical support on the ground, particularly in areas grappling with persistent insurgency, kidnapping and other forms of organised violence. The evolving partnerships mark a significant chapter in Nigeria’s security strategy as authorities balance urgent tactical needs with long‑term institutional strengthening.
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