By Nkechi Eze
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening military cooperation with the Russian Federation during a courtesy visit to the Russian Minister of Defence, Mr. Andrey Belousov, at the Ministry of Defence Headquarters in Moscow.
According to an official signed statement by Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the visit, which took place on Saturday, 10 May 2025, was part of Nigeria’s gesture of solidarity with the Russian Federation on the occasion of its 80th Victory Day Commemoration in honour of Russian heroes who paid the ultimate sacrifice during World War II.

The engagement, described as highly rewarding, enabled General Musa to outline the operational needs of the Armed Forces of Nigeria and explore areas where Russian support could be beneficial under the existing Military Technical Cooperation framework.
Mr. Belousov, while expressing appreciation for the visit, assured that Russia remains committed to providing the necessary military assistance to Nigeria. He noted that further outcomes would be discussed in subsequent engagements, including upcoming meetings of the Intergovernmental Working Group with the Nigerian Armed Forces.
The visit marks a renewed commitment to bilateral defence collaboration between both nations.