In a significant enhancement of Nigeria’s military capabilities, the United Kingdom has donated a state-of-the-art counter-insurgency (COIN) training facility to the Nigerian Armed Forces. The facility, located in Ogun State, was officially handed over during a ceremony on Tuesday, attended by senior military officials from both nations.
Funded by the UK Ministry of Defence, the facility was constructed by Royal Engineers from the British Army in collaboration with Nigerian Army Engineers. This new training centre is designed to improve the realism of military exercises, equipping Nigerian soldiers with the skills necessary to tackle modern warfare challenges and future deployments.
During the handover ceremony, UK Deputy High Commissioner Jonny Baxter highlighted the longstanding and deep security relationship between the UK and Nigeria. He emphasized the UK’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s development, security, and stability, stating, “The UK has deep interests in Nigeria’s development, security, and stability. We enjoy a long-standing security and defence relationship, underpinned by a shared desire to support regional and international peace and security.”
Baxter further noted the UK’s substantial contribution to Nigeria’s security and development, including capacity-building assistance, training facilities, and equipment. He reaffirmed the UK’s ongoing commitment to working with Nigeria to address the root causes of insurgency and insecurity, aiming to enhance security, stability, and growth partnerships between the two nations.
The Deputy High Commissioner also paid tribute to the sacrifices of Nigerian soldiers in their efforts to bring peace and stability to the region, underscoring the UK’s dedication to supporting Nigeria in its fight against insurgency.
The newly established COIN training facility is expected to play a crucial role in preparing Nigerian troops for counter-insurgency operations, significantly bolstering their ability to respond to security threats across the region.
In a related development, the Nigerian Army 301 Artillery Regiment (General Support) in Gombe announced plans to conduct a range classification exercise from Wednesday to Friday. The exercise, aimed at improving the weapon handling capacity of its personnel, will take place at the small arms range in Malate-Liji, Yalmatu-Deba. Residents in the area have been advised not to panic on hearing weapon fire and to avoid the vicinity during the exercise period.
