Tinubu Seeks French Military Backing to Strengthen Fight Against Terrorism

President Bola Tinubu has said Nigeria is pursuing fresh military cooperation with France as part of efforts to strengthen the country’s fight against terrorism and other security threats. He made this known during a meeting with governors at his Ikoyi residence in Lagos after returning from his recent trip to the United Kingdom.

According to the President, discussions with French President Emmanuel Macron included possible support for military equipment and broader assistance for Nigeria’s security operations. Tinubu said his administration is expanding diplomatic engagements with friendly countries and is prepared to use Nigeria’s goodwill and available credit arrangements to secure the equipment and training needed by security forces.

He described insecurity as one of the most pressing challenges facing the country, stressing that the battle against terrorism must remain a top national priority. Tinubu said peace and security are essential for development, prosperity and national stability, adding that the country must work together to overcome violent threats.

The President said military hardware was also part of his recent engagements in the UK, noting that both his discussions with the British and the French touched on the need to improve Nigeria’s defence capabilities. His remarks suggest that the government is widening its international outreach to secure support for operations against insurgents, bandits and other armed groups troubling different parts of the country.

Tinubu also used the meeting to address wider economic concerns. He noted that the ongoing Middle East crisis could worsen inflation and further weaken purchasing power in Nigeria, especially through rising fuel costs, transportation pressures and food prices. He acknowledged that these developments could also deepen labour concerns and increase the strain already being felt by many Nigerians.

While thanking the governors for responding to his invitation at short notice, Tinubu urged them to remain attentive to the needs of vulnerable citizens in their states. He said more must be done to cushion hardship and strengthen support for affected communities. He also extended condolences to Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum over the recent bomb attacks in Maiduguri and called for continued solidarity with victims and residents.

The President reiterated that his administration would continue investing in technology, logistics and operational tools to improve national security. He maintained that Nigeria must decisively confront terrorism and other forms of criminal violence threatening lives and livelihoods across the country.

Nigeria continues to face multiple security challenges, including insurgency in the North-East, banditry in the North-West and North-Central, separatist unrest in the South-East and widespread kidnapping in several regions. France has long played a military role across parts of West Africa and the Sahel, making its possible cooperation with Nigeria significant at a time when regional security remains fragile.

The renewed focus on security comes shortly after the deadly bomb attacks in Maiduguri, which left dozens dead and many others injured. In response to that incident, Tinubu directed security chiefs to relocate to the area and approved additional operational support to strengthen the response. Vice President Kashim Shettima also visited injured victims receiving treatment, assuring Nigerians of the government’s commitment to boosting equipment and logistics for counter-terrorism efforts.

Tinubu’s latest comments followed his visit to the UK, where he met with senior British officials and members of the royal family. During that trip, Nigeria also discussed stronger security cooperation with the United Kingdom, reinforcing the administration’s position that international partnerships remain important in confronting terrorism and instability in West Africa.