The United Kingdom Government has taken a notable step in enhancing Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts, donating sophisticated counter-Improvised Explosive Device equipment to the Operation Hadin Kai Theatre Command Joint Task Force stationed in Maiduguri.
According to The PUNCH, the formal handover took place on Friday, solidifying the growing strategic partnership between the United Kingdom and Nigeria, as confirmed by the News Agency of Nigeria.
This advanced equipment, specifically designed to aid military and law enforcement personnel, is built for the detection and disarmament of explosives, including their precursor components.
It aims to enable Nigerian forces to identify and neutralize IED threats safely and effectively, especially in the challenging Northeast region.
During the presentation, the UK Defence Attaché to Nigeria, Col. Matt Lynch, stressed the UK’s dedication to supporting Nigeria’s fight against terrorism.
Speaking to a distinguished audience of senior Nigerian Army officials, Lynch explained that the provided devices are highly technical yet non-lethal, aimed at strengthening Nigerian troops against IED ambushes.
“Our training team is working alongside the Nigerian Joint Task Force Northeast to enhance critical skills needed to counter violent extremism here,” he said, emphasizing the value of collaborative training in boosting operational effectiveness.
This donation includes specialized IED detection tools tailored for locating and safely neutralizing explosive threats, a capability that Nigerian forces anticipate will improve their tactical approach to combating insurgents.
Commander of the 47 Engineer Brigade, Brigadier-General Abdulrazak Kazeem, expressed gratitude for the contribution, describing it as “timely” in the context of recent developments in IED countermeasures.
Kazeem explained that the equipment supports the full range of counter-IED measures, facilitating both operational deployment and training.
He added, “The donation will not only help defeat IED devices but also support training that aligns with the Nigerian Army’s strategy.”
“This equipment arrives at a crucial moment, allowing us to enhance our proactive approach in detecting and neutralizing threats in the field,” he stated, underscoring the strategic importance of preemptive action.
With the tools provided, Nigerian forces can better analyze and track IED production sites, intercepting bomb makers at the source to prevent the devices from reaching communities and frontline troops.
Kazeem further noted that some tools would be allocated to a training school, a step that ensures personnel remain well-prepared for all stages of counter-IED operations.
“The counter-IED cell, which we recently revived with support from the British Defence Section, will use this equipment to enhance our operational analysis and coordination,” he added, highlighting the role of training in maintaining effective strategy.
Thr Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai, Maj.-Gen. Waidi Shuaibu, shared his appreciation for the UK’s steadfast support, pointing out the significance of training for Nigerian Explosive Ordnance Disposal operators and the establishment of a Counter-IED Coordination Cell within the 47 Engineer Brigade.
“These initiatives, along with previous assistance, clearly demonstrate their commitment to fully neutralising IEDs threats to the theatre,” he affirmed, emphasizing the far-reaching impact on the Nigerian military’s mission to restore peace and security in the Northeast.
He further assured that the donated equipment would be maximized to fulfill both operational and training objectives within the theatre.
“I assure you that this equipment will be put to excellent use, meeting both our Counter-IEDs operational and training commitments,” he promised.
The Theatre Commander also expressed his gratitude to the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, and other Service Chiefs for their sustained strategic guidance and support, which have been crucial to Operation Hadin Kai’s ongoing successes.
“I want to extend my sincere appreciation to the British Defence Section for their continued support in building the capacity of our Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) operators, as well as their role in establishing the CIED Coordination Cell at the 47 Engineer Brigade through an ongoing mentorship course,” Waidi stated, recognizing the importance of international collaboration in securing a stable and prosperous Northeast where daily life can flourish again.
