By Goodluck Ikiebe
The Nigerian Army and the British Government have expressed readiness to strengthen ties on personnel training and equipment acquisition.
The resolution was reached on Wednesday, when the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, received in audience, the United Kingdom Minister of State for Armed Forces and Veterans, Mr James Steven Heappey and his entourage at the Army Headquarters, Abuja.
General Lagbaja stated that the collaboration would provide the opportunity for the Nigeria Army to share in the British Army’s rich experience and expertise in diverse areas, such as counter-terrorism, peace support, logistics, and intelligence, among others.
The Army Chief also noted that the acquisition of quality equipment and technology through this partnership is expected to improve the operational efficiency and effectiveness of the Nigerian Army, in addressing current and emerging security challenges within the country and the sub-region.
The Army Chief appreciated the existing cordial relationship between Nigeria and UK, especially in the areas of training of personnel in British institutions and their support in the fight against insurgency and other forms of insecurity. He also expressed gratitude for the support of the British Military Advisory and Training Team (BMATT) and pledged that the Nigeria Army will sustain the partnership, especially in the area of training, adding that it will continue to partner the British Army towards promoting Nigeria-British interests across the West African spectrum.
Earlier in his remarks, the United Kingdom Minister of State for Armed Forces and Veterans , Mr James Steven Heappey, commended the relationship between the Nigerian Army and the United Kingdom. He maintained that such collaboration would provide valuable opportunities for the Nigerian Army to acquire new skills, knowledge, and technology from its British counterpart.
Mr Heappey stressed that the exchange of expertise will contribute to the professional development and advancement of the Nigerian Army, ultimately leading to a more proficient and well-prepared force.
