By Victor Akaa.
In a significant boost to Nigeria’s counter-insurgency efforts, the United Kingdom has donated a cutting-edge training facility to the Nigerian Armed Forces. The facility, funded by the UK’s Ministry of Defence and built by a team of Royal Engineers from the British Army and Nigerian Army Engineers, aims to enhance the realism of training and better prepare the force for future operations.
The facility was officially opened on Tuesday in Ogun State by Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, represented by Major General SG Mohammed, Chief of Training (Army)alongside British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, Mr Jonny Baxter, and Brigadier Martin Leach from the UK’s Ministry of Defence.
During the handover ceremony, attendees witnessed a demonstration operation conducted by the Nigerian Armed Forces, showcasing the facility’s capabilities. Deputy High Commissioner Mr Jonny Baxter emphasized the UK’s deep interests in Nigeria’s development, security, and stability, highlighting the long-standing security and defence relationship between the two nations.
Baxter stated, “Our work with the Nigerian Armed Forces seeks to build capacity to address the root causes of insurgency and insecurity and support institutional modernisation and transformation.”
He added that the UK provides substantial security and development support to Nigeria, including capacity-building assistance, training facilities, and equipment.
The UK’s donation of the Counter-Insurgency training facility underscores its commitment to supporting Nigeria’s efforts in building a more secure and stable future. This partnership aims to enhance cooperation and foster growth between the two nations.
Source: Arise news
