The government of United Kingdom (UK) donated advanced counter-Improvised Explosives Devices to Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) Theatre Command Joint Task Force in Maiduguri on Friday.
The equipment was handed over to the Theatre Commander, Maj.-Gen. Waidi Shuaibu by the UK Defence Attaché to Nigeria, Colonel Matt Lynch, who said, “I am delighted to be here today to hand over this equipment and mark another development in the strong partnership between the United Kingdom and Nigeria.
“The UK stands with Nigeria in the continued fight against violent extremist organizations in the North-East.
“Our training team is working alongside the Nigerian Joint Task Force Northeast to enhance critical skills needed to counter violent extremism here.”
Shuaibu remarked, “These initiatives, along with previous assistance, clearly demonstrate their commitment to fully neutralising IED threats in the theatre.
“This support significantly contributes to our mandate in Operation Hadin Kai as we work towards restoring normalcy in the Northeast.”
He also expressed his appreciation towards the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and the Service Chiefs for their strategic support in improving the operational capabilities of OPHK.
According to reports, the donated equipment is worth about N1billion and also complements several courses provided by the British Military to train personnel of the Nigerian Army in the specialist skills required to operate the donated equipment.