Tinubu Rejects Private Military Contractors in Africa, Calls for Stronger AU–EU Security Partnership
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has firmly opposed the growing reliance on private military and security contractors across African conflict zones, warning that their involvement threatens sovereignty and undermines coordinated counter-terrorism operations.
Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, made the remarks during the 7th African Union–European Union Summit held in Luanda, Angola. Speaking at the plenary session on Peace, Security, Governance, and Multilateralism, the President stressed that African nations must “take full ownership” of their peace and security architecture.
“We stand resolutely against the use of private military and security companies in African conflicts, as their presence often complicates resolution efforts and undermines state sovereignty.”
The President emphasized that terrorism, organised crime, arms trafficking, and insecurity across Africa require state-driven, transparent cooperation, not outsourced forces with unclear mandates.
Tinubu highlighted Nigeria’s long-standing role in regional peacekeeping under ECOWAS and the African Union. He noted that the country remains committed to promoting peace, stability, and democratic governance across the continent.
He also disclosed that over 250,000 Boko Haram-affiliated individuals surrendered in early 2025, following Nigeria’s mix of kinetic and non-kinetic counter-terrorism strategies — a major milestone in the fight against terrorism.
renewed Nigeria’s call for Africa to secure permanent seats with veto power on the United Nations Security Council. He urged the EU to support Africa’s “long-standing and legitimate demand” for a fairer global governance system.
Tinubu warned that the weakening of global multilateralism has contributed to rising global insecurity. However, he praised the EU for maintaining a cooperative, continent-to-continent engagement with Africa based on mutual respect and shared aspirations.
He urged African and European leaders to prioritize:
Preventive diplomacy
Inclusive governance
Joint counter-terrorism efforts
Investment in infrastructure and human development
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