The Armed Forces of Nigeria have dropped three places in the latest Global Firepower (GFP) global military ranking, sliding from 36th position in 2023 to 39th in 2024. This marks the second consecutive decline after Nigeria ranked 35th in 2022.
Despite recent acquisitions of fighter jets and other combat enablers, as well as reported successes against terrorist activities, the ranking indicates a decline in the country’s overall military capabilities.
The 2024 rankings assessed 145 countries, with Nigeria also falling from third to fourth position in Africa. Egypt continues to lead on the continent, followed by Algeria and South Africa. Ethiopia, Angola, Morocco, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Tunisia, and Sudan round out the top 10 African militaries.
For the 18th consecutive year, the United States retained its top position globally, showcasing commanding values in material, financial, and resource categories. The USA is followed by Russia, China, and India, ranked second, third, and fourth, respectively. South Korea completes the top five, while the United Kingdom, Japan, Turkey, Pakistan, and Italy hold the next five spots.
Countries like Australia, Israel, Ukraine, Germany, and Spain ranked 16th to 20th. France, Brazil, Indonesia, Iran, and Egypt complete the top 15.
Global Firepower uses over 60 individual factors to calculate a nation’s PowerIndex (PwrIndx) score, with 0.0000 representing a “perfect” score. These factors range from the quantity of military units and financial standing to logistical capabilities and geography. Nigeria’s PwrIndx score for 2024 stands at 0.5619.
GFP noted that its unique methodology allows smaller, technologically advanced nations to compete with larger, less-developed powers. Special modifiers, such as bonuses and penalties, further refine the annual rankings.
When contacted, the Director of Defence Information, Brig. Gen. Tukur Gusau, declined to comment on the rankings, stating, “I am not aware of the ranking and I can’t comment on it.”
The report underscores the ongoing challenges facing Nigeria’s military amidst efforts to modernize and enhance its capabilities.
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