5 Most Powerful Militaries in Africa

4. Nigeria

GDP: $477 billion

Defense Spending: $3.48 billion

Technological Advancement: 114/132

Manpower: 135,000

Tanks: 177

Armored Fighting Vehicles: 15,748

Aircrafts including Fighter Jets: 144

Naval Fleet: 136

Average Ranking: 5.90

Nigeria has the largest economy in Africa and one of the most powerful militaries in the region. The country spends heavily on defense because of the ongoing militant insurgency from Boko Haram in Nigeria’s northeast. Nigerian military has a sizable, battle-hardened force and is also well equipped on the aerial and naval sides.