FG to deploy 200 special forces to Türkiye for training

Nigeria has secured a new military training partnership with Türkiye, with plans to deploy 200 Special Forces personnel for advanced training.

The Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, disclosed the development on Saturday during the Antalya Diplomacy Forum 2026 held in Antalya. He spoke after bilateral talks with his Turkish counterpart, Yasar Guler.

According to Musa, Türkiye has approved a training slot for 200 Nigerian troops, who will be sent for immediate training once arrangements are finalised.

He added that the agreement forms part of broader defence cooperation between both countries, which will also include joint military exercises scheduled for later in the year.

Beyond training, the two nations are exploring collaboration in defence production and technology transfer. Musa noted that Türkiye’s advances in military hardware manufacturing present an opportunity for Nigeria to strengthen its own defence industry through joint production initiatives.

He highlighted the long-standing relationship between both countries, describing Türkiye as a strategic partner with decades of experience in counterterrorism operations. While Nigeria has battled insurgency for about 17 years, Türkiye has spent several decades confronting similar threats, providing valuable expertise for knowledge exchange.

The minister said the partnership would also cover officer exchange programmes and efforts to boost Nigeria’s defence industrial capacity.

The forum, themed “Mapping Tomorrow, Managing Uncertainties,” brought together global leaders, ministers, and policymakers to discuss pressing international issues, including security, technology, and economic development.