The United States has approved a potential $346 million arms sale to Nigeria, providing ammunition, precision-guided bombs, and rockets to enhance the country’s military operations against terrorism and illicit trafficking.
The Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) confirmed the approval on Wednesday, detailing the package as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s security capabilities.
The proposed sale includes 1,002 MK-82 general-purpose 500 lb bombs, 1,002 MXU-650 Air Foil Groups for Paveway II GBU-12 bombs, and 515 MXU-1006 Air Foil Groups for 250 lb Paveway II GBU-58 bombs.
Additionally, the deal covers 1,517 computer control groups for Paveway II bombs, 1,002 FMU-152 joint programmable fuzes, and 5,000 Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System II all-up rounds. The package also includes non-major defence equipment such as bomb components, impulse cartridges, high-explosive and practice rockets, as well as integration support, test equipment, and logistics services.
Major defence contractors involved in the sale include Lockheed Martin, RTX Missiles and Defence, and BAE Systems. The DSCA stated that the deal would improve Nigeria’s ability to combat terrorist groups and disrupt illicit trafficking activities, particularly in the Gulf of Guinea.
The agency emphasised that the sale would not disrupt the regional military balance, as it is intended solely for defensive and counterterrorism purposes.
The final cost of the deal will depend on Nigeria’s specific requirements, budget approvals, and finalised agreements between the two nations. This latest arms sale follows a previous $997 million U.S. military equipment deal in 2022, which included 12 AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters and advanced night vision systems.
Nigeria has been engaged in prolonged battles against insurgent groups such as Boko Haram and ISIS-affiliated militants in the northeast, as well as armed bandits in the northwest. The U.S. has consistently supported Nigeria’s counterterrorism efforts through military aid, training, and equipment sales. The new arms package is expected to enhance the precision and effectiveness of Nigeria’s airstrikes, reducing collateral damage and improving operational success against militant hideouts.
The approval comes amid growing concerns over regional security in West Africa, where extremist violence and transnational crime continue to destabilise several nations.
The U.S. government has reiterated its commitment to assisting Nigeria in maintaining stability and combating threats that could spill over into neighbouring countries. The deal is now subject to congressional review, though objections are unlikely given the longstanding defence partnership between the two countries.
Also Read:
Zamfara Governor visits communities after Bandits attacks, pledges enhanced security
Bandits kill one, abduct 16 in fresh Sokoto village attack
Flooding submerges homes and farmlands in Adamawa’s Hong town
