December 17, 2025 | SUNTV Global Channel – Defence & Security Desk
Nigeria has taken a major step toward strengthening its air power after sealing a €1.2 billion agreement with Italian aerospace and defence company Leonardo S.p.A. for the purchase of 24 M-346FA light fighter aircraft, a move described as the largest single military jet acquisition in West Africa.
According to a report by Business Inside Africa, the deal forms part of the Federal Government’s expanding military modernisation programme aimed at enhancing the operational capacity of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) amid worsening security challenges across the country.
The M-346FA aircraft, manufactured by Leonardo, are multi-role light fighter and attack jets designed for aerial surveillance, close air support and precision strike missions. Security experts say their deployment would significantly improve Nigeria’s ability to respond swiftly to insurgent activities, banditry and other asymmetric threats.
Beyond the delivery of the jets, the agreement reportedly includes comprehensive maintenance packages, logistics support, pilot training and long-term technical assistance. Analysts note that this signals a shift from short-term military upgrades to a more sustainable approach focused on long-term combat readiness and fleet reliability.
The acquisition follows earlier approval by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) for a $618 million external borrowing plan to finance the purchase of the Italian-made aircraft and associated munitions, highlighting the government’s commitment to upgrading air combat capabilities.
Nigeria’s latest arms procurement comes at a time when the country continues to battle multiple security crises. The Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) insurgency remains active in the North-East, while banditry and mass kidnappings have intensified in the North-West. In the Middle Belt, recurring communal clashes have led to loss of lives, mass displacement and disruption of economic activities.
Military officials believe the M-346FA jets will provide greater operational flexibility, enabling the Air Force to conduct intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions more effectively, while also delivering precision strikes against hostile targets.
The deal also reflects Nigeria’s growing role in regional security. Recently, Nigerian troops were deployed to neighbouring Benin following an attempted coup in Cotonou, at the request of Beninese authorities and with approval from the Nigerian Senate. The intervention reportedly helped restore constitutional order and reinforced Nigeria’s position as a key security stabiliser in West Africa.
Observers say Nigeria’s decision to partner with Italy signals a strategic shift in its defence procurement policy. By engaging Italian manufacturers, Abuja appears to be seeking advanced technology, competitive pricing and stronger after-sales support, while gradually reducing reliance on traditional arms suppliers such as the United States, Russia and China.
However, the €1.2 billion purchase is expected to spark renewed public debate over government spending priorities, especially as many Nigerians grapple with rising inflation, increasing public debt and worsening living conditions.
Despite the controversy, defence analysts argue that strengthening air power remains critical for national security, regional stability and the protection of lives and infrastructure in Africa’s most populous nation.
