UK Donates Advanced Counter-IED Equipment to Nigerian Military in Fight Against Terrorism
The United Kingdom government has donated advanced counter-Improvised Explosives Devices (IEDs) equipment to the Operation Hadin Kai Theatre, OPHK, Command Joint Task Force in Maiduguri, Borno State. The donation marks a significant milestone in the strategic partnership between the UK and Nigeria in the fight against terrorism, particularly in the Northeast.
According to the UK Defence Attaché to Nigeria, Col. Matt Lynch, the donated equipment includes specialized IED detectors and tools designed to identify and safely neutralize explosive threats. The equipment is described as highly technical, non-lethal, and meant to complement the efforts of the Nigerian military in countering IED ambushes.
"The devices being donated were highly technical, non-lethal military equipment meant to complement the efforts of the Nigerian military in countering all forms of IEDs ambushes while in operations," Lynch said.
The commander of the 47 Engineer Brigade, Brig.-Gen. Abdulrazak Kazeem, praised the donation, saying it was "timely" given recent developments in counter-IED operations in the region. Kazeem highlighted that the equipment covers the full spectrum of IED countermeasures and will support both operational and training efforts.
"We can analyze and identify areas where IEDs are being manufactured, allowing us to attack these staging areas directly by intercepting the bomb makers at the source. Our aim is to reduce casualties and prevent IEDs from being deployed against our forces and communities," Kazeem added.
The Maiduguri operation is notable for the ongoing counter-IED efforts in the region, and the equipment will enhance the troops’ capacity to mitigate IED threats in the theatre of operations.
Also expressing his gratitude, the Theatre Commander, Maj.-Gen. Waidi Shuaibu thanked the British government for their ongoing support, which includes training for Nigerian Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) operators and the development of a Counter-IED Coordination Cell at the 47 Engineer Brigade.
"The initiatives, along with previous assistance, clearly demonstrate their commitment to fully neutralizing IED threats in the theatre. This support significantly contributes to our mandate in Operation Hadin Kai, as we work toward restoring normalcy in the North East and creating an environment where socio-economic activities can thrive," he said.
The equipment was handed over by representatives of the British Defence Staff West Africa in the presence of senior officers from the Nigerian Army in Maiduguri.
