Moscow, Russia- In a notable display of military diplomacy, The Nigeria Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), lieutenant General Christopher Musa, attended Russia’s grand Victory Day celebrations in Moscow, a military parade to mark the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II.
The high-profile event in Red Square featured a massive military parade showcasing Russia’s armed forces, including advanced missile systems and historic WWII-era tanks. President Vladimir Putin presided over the ceremony, delivering a speech that honoured Soviet sacrifices while emphasising national resilience amid current global conflicts.
The presence of Nigeria’s top military official signalled a delicate balancing act, as Western nations remain divided over engagement with Russia due to its ongoing war in Ukraine. However, observers suggest the CDS’s attendance may indicate an effort to maintain open communication channels despite broader geopolitical strains. It is also in line with Nigeria’s Foreign policy of non-alignment. The policy, which came into effect during the Cold War, states that the Nation will not align with any of the blocs or superpowers.
The CDS’s participation, therefore, could be a strategic move to further announce to the world that Nigeria’s military is open to alliances with any bloc, which could further its military objectives. Especially now that the Country is facing security challenges, which the CDS, General Musa, once described as having external influence. It could also be recalled that Nigeria formally accepted a partnership status in BRICS in January 2025. The BRICS group, at inception composed of Brazil, Russia, India, and China when it was established in 2006. South Africa joined in 2010. The group is continuously expanding with the addition of the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Ethiopia and Iran in Year 2023.
Nigeria is now a partner country within the BRICS bloc. Though not a full member, the partnership status might be viewed as an observer in the organisation.
It is also significant that some NATO allies avoided high-level representation at the event. However, several non-Western nations, including China, India, and former Soviet states, also sent delegations.
