By John Ikani
Global Firepower Index has in its latest ranking downgraded Nigeria’s military to 36th in the world and fourth in Africa.
The Global Firepower Index considers over 60 individual factors to determine a country’s Power Index score, which ranges from the number of military units and financial standing to logistical capabilities and geography.
The Armed Forces of Nigeria were previously ranked 35th out of 142 countries in the 2022 annual ranking.
However, in the 2023 ranking, Nigeria dropped to 36th out of a total of 145 countries reviewed.
In addition, Nigeria dropped from third to fourth on the continent.
The United States of America’s military is ranked first in the world, with Russia in second place and China in third.
India is ranked fourth, followed by the United Kingdom in fifth. The remaining countries in the top ten include South Korea, Pakistan, Japan, France, and Italy.
In Africa, Egypt is ranked number one and 14th in the world, Algeria is second and 26th in the world, and South Africa is ranked 33rd in the world to emerge third on the continent.
The acting director Defence Information Brigadier General Tukur Gusau declined to comment on whether the ranking was a true reflection of the military’s strength.
This latest ranking by the Global Firepower Index is of significant importance for Nigeria’s military, as it will likely affect the country’s perception in the international community.
