EU adopts €20 million assistance measure to bolster Nigeria's defence capacities

The Council of the European Union on 19 October 2026 adopted an assistance measure worth €20 million under the European Peace Facility (EPF) in support of the armed forces of Nigeria, according to a press release. It is the first bilateral assistance measure for Nigeria, a country that already benefits from EPF support as part of the multinational joint task force (MNJTF) in the Lake Chad basin. The decision marks a concrete step toward deepening the security partnership between the EU and Nigeria. The measure complements ongoing EU engagement in the region. It also reflects shared priorities between Brussels and Abuja on peace and stability.

The EPF was established in March 2021 to finance actions under the common foreign and security policy aimed at preventing conflicts, preserving peace, and strengthening international security and stability. In particular, the facility allows the EU to finance actions designed to strengthen the capacities of third States and regional and international organisations relating to military and defence matters. Nigeria has previously received EPF-backed support through the MNJTF framework in the Lake Chad basin. The new bilateral measure builds on that cooperation. It expands the scope of EU defence-related assistance directed to Nigeria.

The newly adopted measure consists in the provision of non-lethal defence capabilities to the Nigerian armed forces. The support focuses on counter-improvised explosive device (C-IED), counter unmanned aircraft system (C-UAS), night vision, and individual protection. These capabilities are intended to improve the security of troops deployed on Nigeria’s national territory. They also aim to strengthen the forces’ capacity to react against malign external actors, armed groups, and bandits. The assistance targets operational needs identified within the Nigerian security context.

The measure aligns with the shared priorities discussed in the Peace, Security and Defence Dialogue between Nigeria and the EU, most recently held on 18 February 2026. It also reflects outcomes from the 8th Nigeria-EU ministerial dialogue, held on 23 March 2026 in Abuja. According to the Council, the measure “forms part of the EU engagement to support peace and stability in the country.” The dialogue structures have provided the framework for identifying areas of cooperation. The bilateral measure translates these discussions into concrete action.

The support under the EPF is part of a broader package of EU assistance that combines various tools. This includes assistance aimed at preventing and combatting violent extremism. Together, these instruments reinforce the EU’s broader engagement with Nigeria on security and stability. The adoption of the measure consolidates the EU-Nigeria partnership on defence matters. It confirms the EU’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s response to persistent security challenges.