The Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Muhammad Matawalle, has called on India to explore investment opportunities in the country’s defence sector.
In a statement signed by its personal assistant on media Ahmad Dan-Wudil on Wednesday,said “Matawalle extended the invitation during a bilateral meeting with India’s Minister of State for Defence, Mr Raksha Rajya Mantri Sanjay Seth, in New Delhi on Tuesday, 12 August 2025.
Matawalle said Nigeria was eager to deepen collaboration, especially in indigenous defence manufacturing, to reduce dependence on foreign imports.
He invited the Indian delegation to visit Nigerian defence facilities to explore possible partnerships and joint ventures.
The Nigerian delegation, on an official visit to India from 11–14 August, also met with Indian defence industry leaders to discuss technology transfer and industrial cooperation.
Defence ties between the two countries date back to the early 1960s and have been strengthened by shared democratic values and a mutual commitment to peace and security.
“The talks centred on expanding defence cooperation, with a focus on counter-terrorism training, maritime security, hydrography, anti-piracy operations, and research and development.
“Seth highlighted India’s advanced defence manufacturing capacity, including the production of Light Combat Aircraft, Light Combat Helicopters, and Offshore Patrol Vessels.
He assured Nigeria of India’s full support in meeting its defence procurement needs and enhancing operational readiness.