The United Kingdom has donated a state-of-the-art Counter Insurgency (COIN) training facility to the Nigerian Armed Forces, aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of their training and better preparing them for future operations.
Funded by the UK Ministry of Defence, the facility was constructed through a collaborative effort between Royal Engineers from the British Army and Nigerian Army Engineers. This new facility is expected to make training more realistic for Nigerian soldiers, equipping them to operate effectively during deployments.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, represented by Major General SG Mohammed, officially inaugurated the training facility in Ogun State. The event was attended by British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, Mr. Jonny Baxter, and Brigadier Martin Leach from the UK Ministry of Defence.
During the ceremony, attendees witnessed a demonstration by the Nigerian Armed Forces, showcasing the capabilities of the newly equipped facility. The Deputy High Commissioner was also briefed on the training exercises.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, Deputy High Commissioner Jonny Baxter highlighted the UK’s commitment to Nigeria’s development, security, and stability.
“The UK enjoys a long-standing security and defence relationship with Nigeria, grounded in a shared commitment to regional and international peace and security,” Baxter said. “Our collaboration with the Nigerian Armed Forces aims to build capacity to address the root causes of insurgency and insecurity, while supporting institutional modernization and transformation.”
He emphasized that the UK provides substantial security and development support to Nigeria, including capacity building assistance, training facilities, and equipment. Baxter reaffirmed the British Government’s dedication to working with Nigeria to address the drivers of conflict and promote better security, stability, and growth partnerships for the benefit of both nations.
Baxter also paid tribute to the significant sacrifices made by Nigerian soldiers in their efforts to bring peace and security to the region.
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