Nigeria has emerged as the third most powerful military force in Africa, according to the latest Global Firepower Index, even as the country’s government calls for calm in the face of rising tensions between Israel and Iran.
The new 2025 rankings, published by Business Insider Africa using Global Firepower data, show Nigeria moving up the continental ladder from 4th to 3rd place, overtaking South Africa. Globally, Nigeria improved its standing from 39th to 31st with a PowerIndex score of 0.57 signalling a growing conventional military capacity.
Egypt and Algeria maintain the top two spots in Africa with scores of 0.34 and 0.35 respectively, while South Africa, now ranked 4th on the continent, saw a decline to 40th globally.
Nigeria Strengthens Military Posture Amid Regional Unrest
Military analysts say Nigeria’s rise in the ranking reflects increased investment in defence infrastructure, counter-terrorism training, and regional partnerships, especially amid persistent threats from terrorist groups like Boko Haram and ISWAP in the Sahel
“Stable nations like Nigeria are responding to internal and regional challenges by strengthening their military capabilities,” said security analyst Dr. Ayodele Balogun. “It’s also a signal to neighbours and allies that Nigeria is repositioning as a regional stabiliser.”
Abuja Calls for De-escalation in Middle East
Despite this growing firepower, Nigerian officials are calling for peace, not war.
Following Israel’s preemptive airstrike on Iranian nuclear and military assets which has triggered days of missile exchanges between both countries Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a strong statement condemning the escalation.
“The Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria condemns Israel’s preemptive strike on Iran,” said ministry spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa in a statement released on Saturday. “We express our grave concern and call for an immediate cessation of hostilities.”
The statement warned of wider instability, urging both nations to prioritise diplomacy over military confrontation.
“The continued cycle of retaliation endangers civilian lives and threatens to plunge the broader Middle East into further instability, with implications for international security and economic development,” it added.
Nigeria also appealed to the United Nations Security Council to provide a platform for de-escalation and reaffirmed its support for diplomatic solutions rooted in international law.
“Nigeria stands ready to support all genuine efforts aimed at de-escalating tensions and promoting peace in the region,” the Foreign Ministry reiterated.
A Balancing Act
As Nigeria grows in military strength, it continues to walk a diplomatic tightrope—projecting power at home and in West Africa, while advocating restraint and dialogue in international crises.
Observers say the country’s recent military gains have not gone unnoticed, but Abuja’s commitment to peace could define its broader global role in the years ahead.
