Nigeria has climbed to 3rd place in Africa’s military rankings, according to the latest Global Firepower Index released today.
The index, which evaluates 145 countries based on capability, strategic assets, and financial muscle, now places Nigeria behind only Egypt (#1) and Algeria (#2), surpassing South Africa in the process .
The report attributes Nigeria’s ascent to significant investments in personnel, counter-terrorism equipment, and logistics bolstered by robust defence spending of approximately $3.16 billion in 2024.
This boost aligns with recent efforts to localize arms production under the Defense Ministry and improve strategic readiness. Nigeria’s sizeable active force of 230,000 personnel supported by naval and air capabilities—underpins its rising score.
Military analysts suggest the elevation reflects recognition of the country’s operational role in regional security, including peacekeeping missions and domestic counter-insurgency efforts, particularly in the fight against Boko Haram.
The Nigerian government has welcomed the ranking as a milestone, highlighting that strengthened security capacity enables better protection of citizens and enhanced readiness for regional stability efforts.
