Nigeria Climbs To Third Most Powerful Military In Africa, Says 2025 Global Firepower Index.
In a significant milestone for Nigeria’s defence sector, the country has been ranked as the third most powerful military force in Africa according to the 2025 Global Military Strength Index, released by Global Firepower (GFP). The announcement, made public on Monday, 23 June 2025, underscores Nigeria’s growing military capabilities and its pivotal role in regional security.
The GFP Index, a globally respected annual assessment, evaluates 145 countries based on over 60 metrics, including troop numbers, equipment capabilities, financial resources, logistical efficiency, and geographical advantages. Nigeria’s rise to third place in Africa, with a global ranking of 31st, marks an improvement from its previous fourth-place position on the continent, overtaking South Africa, which now ranks fourth (40th globally).
Egypt retained its position as Africa’s leading military power, ranking 19th globally, followed by Algeria in second place (26th globally). The top 10 African nations, as listed in the 2025 GFP Index, are rounded out by Ethiopia (52nd), Angola (56th), Morocco (59th), the Democratic Republic of the Congo (66th), Sudan (73rd), and Libya (76th). Other notable rankings include Kenya at 11th (83rd globally) and Ghana at 20th (110th globally).
Nigeria’s military strength is driven by its substantial manpower, with a total of 280,000 soldiers, including 230,000 active personnel and 50,000 paramilitary forces. The Nigerian Armed Forces boast 65,000 army personnel, 15,000 air force staff, and 5,500 navy personnel. On land, Nigeria commands 8,962 vehicles, 330 tanks, 40 self-propelled artillery units, and 339 towed artillery pieces. In the air, the country operates 163 military aircraft, including 14 fighter jets, 66 helicopters, and 28 trainer jets. However, its naval capacity remains limited, with 109 patrol vessels but no submarines or warships listed.
The GFP report highlights Nigeria’s strategic investments in modernising its armed forces, particularly in response to internal security challenges such as insurgency and terrorism. “Nigeria’s rise to third underscores its growing military capabilities, driven by investments in personnel, equipment, and counter-terrorism efforts,” the report noted.
Reacting to the ranking, a spokesperson for the Nigerian Ministry of Defence expressed pride in the achievement, attributing it to ongoing reforms and increased funding for the military. “This ranking reflects the dedication of our armed forces and the government’s commitment to ensuring Nigeria remains a secure and influential nation in Africa,” the spokesperson said.
Defence analysts have praised Nigeria’s progress, citing its efforts to bolster regional peacekeeping and combat threats like Boko Haram. “Nigeria’s military has made fast strides in recent years, particularly in modernising its equipment and training,” said a Lagos-based security expert. “This ranking is a testament to those efforts.”
The GFP Index’s methodology ensures a balanced assessment by incorporating factors such as financial stability and technological advancement, allowing smaller but more advanced militaries to compete with larger forces. Nigeria’s improved ranking reflects its economic muscle as an oil-rich nation and its strategic focus on defence modernisation.
As Nigeria cements its position among Africa’s military elite, the government has reaffirmed its commitment to further strengthening the armed forces to address both domestic and regional security challenges. The 2025 ranking serves as a boost to national morale and a reminder of Nigeria’s critical role in fostering stability across the continent.