The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has refuted claims that Nigeria has granted permission to France or any other foreign country to establish a military base within its borders.
Addressing the reports, Musa dismissed suggestions linking President Bola Tinubu’s recent visit to France, during which several bilateral agreements were signed, to any plans for foreign military bases in Nigeria.
Speaking on Friday at the unveiling of the Armed Forces of Nigeria 2025 Tattoo Logo at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja, the CDS said such plans were not on the agenda of the president.
Musa emphasised that no foreign entity would be allowed to set up a military base in Nigeria, whether in the north, south or any other region.
He stated, “Mr. President has been very clear on this matter. The agreements signed during his visit were focused on trade, culture, tradition, cooperation, and the economy — none of them included provisions for foreign military bases. He fully understands the implications and remains committed to protecting Nigeria’s sovereignty.”
Musa further highlighted Nigeria’s ongoing partnerships with other nations, including joint training programs and officer exchanges, which are standard practices in global military cooperation.
However, he firmly ruled out the establishment of foreign bases, reiterating that such plans are not part of the president’s agenda.
“This is an opportunity to set the record straight,” he added.
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