The United Kingdom has officially handed over a state-of-the-art Counter-Insurgency (COIN) training facility to the Nigerian Armed Forces, aimed at enhancing the realism and effectiveness of their training. The new facility is set to significantly boost the preparedness of Nigerian soldiers, improving their operational capabilities for future deployments.
The British High Commission in Nigeria announced the donation in a statement. The facility was inaugurated in Ogun State by Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, who was represented by Major General S.G. Mohammed. The ceremony was also attended by Mr. Jonny Baxter, the British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, and Brigadier Martin Leach from the UK’s Ministry of Defence.
At the handover ceremony, Mr. Baxter highlighted the UK’s enduring commitment to 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. Our work with the Nigeria Armed Forces seeks to build capacity to address the root causes of insurgency and insecurity and support institutional modernisation and transformation,” Mr. Baxter stated.
He added, “We provide substantial security and development support to Nigeria including capacity building assistance, training facilities and equipment. The British Government will continue to work with Nigeria to respond to the drivers of conflict – and all these engagements we hope, will lead to better security, stability, and enhanced growth partnerships for the good of both our countries.”
Mr. Baxter also recognised the significant sacrifices made by Nigerian soldiers in their quest to ensure peace and security in the region.
During the event, the Nigerian Armed Forces demonstrated the practical use of the new facility with a live exercise. The training centre, funded by the UK’s Ministry of Defence, was built by a team of Royal Engineers from the British Army in collaboration with Nigerian Army Engineers.