General Christopher Musa, Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), has denied recent reports suggesting that the country is considering granting permission for France or any other foreign nation to establish a military base on Nigerian soil.
During a media briefing on Friday at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja, Musa addressed the rumors linking President Bola Tinubu’s recent visit to France with potential plans for foreign military installations in Nigeria.
He made it clear that such claims were unfounded and that the establishment of foreign military bases is not part of President Tinubu’s agenda.
Musa explained that the agreements signed during President Tinubu’s trip to France focused primarily on enhancing trade, cultural exchanges, economic cooperation, and strengthening diplomatic ties between the two nations, with no mention of military cooperation or the establishment of military bases.
The CDS underscored that the president fully understands the importance of safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty and is committed to ensuring the country’s independence in all matters, including military affairs.
The CDS emphasized that Nigeria has no intentions of allowing foreign military bases, regardless of the region within the country.
He further clarified that while Nigeria continues to engage in international military partnerships, such as joint training exercises and officer exchanges, these are standard global practices and do not entail foreign military installations.
Musa concluded by reiterating that the notion of foreign military bases in Nigeria is not part of the current government’s plans, reinforcing the commitment to protect the nation’s sovereignty.
