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Nigeria debunks reports of establishment of foreign military bases amid speculation over France deal

Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has categorically denied rumors that the country has granted permission to France or any other foreign nation to establish a military base within its borders.
Speaking at the unveiling of the Armed Forces of Nigeria 2025 Tattoo Logo at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja on Friday, Musa dismissed suggestions that President Bola Tinubu’s recent visit to France, during which several bilateral agreements were signed, was linked to plans for foreign military bases in Nigeria.
Musa emphasized that such plans were not on the agenda of the president, stressing that no foreign entity would be allowed to set up a military base in Nigeria, whether in the north, south, or any other region.
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“Mr. President has been very clear on this matter,” Musa stated. “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 also 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,” Musa added.
It’s worth noting that several countries, including France, have established military bases in various parts of the world. According to a report, France has military bases in several countries, including Germany, Djibouti, Ivory Coast, Gabon, Senegal, and Chad.
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