Nigeria Rises to Third Position Among Africa’s Strongest Militaries in 2025 Global Firepower Index

Nigeria has achieved a significant milestone by securing the third spot among African nations with the most formidable military forces in the 2025 Global Firepower Military Strength Index. This annual ranking, which evaluates 145 countries worldwide, is based on a comprehensive analysis of over 60 factors including troop strength, equipment inventory, financial resources, logistical capabilities, and geographical advantages.

Okay.ng reports that Egypt continues to dominate the continent as Africa’s leading military power, holding the first position. Algeria follows closely in second place, while South Africa ranks fourth. Nigeria’s advancement to third place highlights the country’s expanding military prowess, which is attributed to strategic investments in personnel training, modern equipment acquisition, and intensified counter-terrorism operations.

The Global Firepower Index offers a detailed overview of African military rankings for 2025, listing the top countries as follows: Egypt (19th globally), Algeria (26th), Nigeria (31st), South Africa (40th), and Ethiopia (52nd), among others. This ranking underscores Nigeria’s growing influence and capability in regional security matters.

The Nigerian military’s enhanced status reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen national defense and address security challenges, particularly in the northeastern regions affected by insurgency. The government’s commitment to upgrading military hardware and improving operational readiness has played a crucial role in this achievement.

Below is the full list of African countries featured in the 2025 Global Firepower Index:

1. Egypt (19)

2. Algeria (26)

3. Nigeria (31)

4. South Africa (40)

5. Ethiopia (52)

6. Angola (56)

7. Morocco (59)

8. Democratic Republic of the Congo (66)

9. Sudan (73)

10. Libya (76)

11. Kenya (83)

12. Chad (84)

13. Mozambique (89)

14. Tunisia (90)

15. Tanzania (92)

16. Cameroon (93)

17. Ivory Coast (102)

18. Mali (104)

19. Zambia (109)

20. Ghana (110)

21. Zimbabwe (111)

22. South Sudan (113)

23. Uganda (114)

24. Namibia (116)

25. Niger (119)

26. Eritrea (120)

27. Republic of the Congo (121)

28. Botswana (122)

29. Mauritania (123)

30. Senegal (125)

31. Burkina Faso (129)

32. Madagascar (130)

33. Gabon (133)

34. Liberia (138)

35. Sierra Leone (140)

36. Somalia (142)

37. Central African Republic (143)

38. Benin (144)

This ranking serves as an important benchmark for Nigeria’s defense sector and its role in maintaining peace and security across Africa.