Nigeria is set to significantly boost its air power with the acquisition of 24 M-346FA light fighter aircraft from Italy in a deal estimated at €1.2 billion, marking the largest single purchase of military jets by any country in West Africa.
The agreement with Italian aerospace and defence giant, Leonardo S.p.A., is part of Nigeria’s expanding military modernisation programme aimed at strengthening the Nigerian Air Force.
The deal includes maintenance, logistics, and long-term technical support, signalling the government’s intention to sustain combat readiness.
The purchase follows earlier approval for a $618 million borrowing plan to finance the acquisition of the aircraft and associated munitions.
The move is seen as a strategic shift in Nigeria’s arms procurement policy, seeking more modern equipment and competitive pricing while reducing dependence on traditional suppliers.
However, the massive arms purchase is likely to reignite debates over government spending priorities amid severe economic hardship and rising debt.
