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| Photo: Terrorist |
Nigeria’s ongoing battle against terrorism and insecurity may be facing a critical setback, as a new report has highlighted a significant shortage of modern weapons across the country and the wider African continent.
The findings, released by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), suggest that limited access to advanced military equipment is undermining efforts to combat insurgency, banditry and other security threats.
Africa’s Limited Share of Global Arms
According to the report, Africa accounted for just 4.5 per cent of global arms imports between 2024 and 2025, a figure that pales in comparison to Europe’s dominant share of 48.2 per cent.
Security experts say this imbalance reflects a broader structural challenge, where African nations are forced to confront increasingly sophisticated threats with comparatively limited resources.
Nigeria’s Declining Arms Imports
Nigeria’s own figures point to a worrying trend. The country recorded a total of 114 million in arms imports, representing only 0.2 per cent of global volume within the review period.
More strikingly, imports dropped sharply from 93 million in 2024 to just 21 million in 2025, signalling a significant reduction in procurement capacity.
Analysts warn that such a decline could weaken operational effectiveness at a time when security challenges are intensifying across multiple regions of the country.
Rising Threats, Limited Capacity
Nigeria continues to grapple with a complex web of security issues, including insurgency in the North-East, banditry in the North-West, and communal violence in other regions.
The spread of armed groups and criminal networks has been exacerbated by the availability of illegal weapons, even as official military procurement struggles to keep pace.
Experts argue that without adequate access to modern arms and equipment, security forces may find it increasingly difficult to respond effectively to evolving threats.
Global Arms Dynamics Highlight Inequality
The report also underscores the global imbalance in arms distribution. While African countries face shortages, major powers and regions continue to dominate both imports and exports.
The United States remains the world’s leading arms exporter, accounting for 43 per cent of global exports, followed by France and Russia.
Meanwhile, countries like Ukraine and Poland top the list of importers, reflecting ongoing geopolitical conflicts and strategic defence investments.
Implications for Security in Nigeria and Africa
Security analysts say the disparity in arms access could have far-reaching consequences for Africa’s stability.
A lack of modern equipment not only limits the ability of security forces to confront terrorists but also risks prolonging conflicts and increasing civilian vulnerability.
Looking Ahead
As Nigeria and other African nations continue to battle evolving security threats, the report highlights the urgent need for improved defence capacity, strategic partnerships, and better resource allocation.
Without these measures, experts warn that the fight against terrorism may remain uneven—placing additional strain on already stretched security systems.
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