The United States has approved a potential $346 million arms sale to Nigeria to bolster the country’s capacity to combat terrorism and curb illicit maritime activities in the Gulf of Guinea. The Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) confirmed that the US State Department cleared Nigeria’s request to purchase advanced munitions, precision bombs, rockets, and associated technical and logistical support.
The proposed package includes:
1,002 MK-82 general-purpose 500-pound bombs
1,002 MXU-650 Air Foil Groups for Paveway II GBU-12 bombs
515 MXU-1006 Air Foil Groups for 250-pound Paveway II GBU-58 bombs
5,000 Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System II (APKWS II) rounds, among other bomb components and fuze systems
Lockheed Martin, RTX Missiles and Defense, and BAE Systems are the primary contractors. The DSCA emphasized that the sale will support US foreign policy and national security goals by enhancing the security of a strategic partner in Sub-Saharan Africa.
The agency noted that the deal will not disrupt the regional military balance, and Nigeria will be able to integrate the weapons into its armed forces without difficulty. The $346 million estimate reflects the maximum value, with the final cost depending on Nigeria’s budget, requirements, and the conclusion of a formal sales agreement.
This follows a similar 2022 approval, when the US authorised $997 million in military equipment to Nigeria, including attack helicopters, precision weapon systems, and night vision equipment. The latest sale marks a significant reinforcement of Nigeria’s firepower amid ongoing security challenges.
