Maiduguri: UK Minister of State for Defence, Lord Vernon Coaker, has reaffirmed the longstanding defence partnership between the United Kingdom and Nigeria in the fight against terrorism and counter-insurgency operations in the North-East. Coaker, who is on a working visit to Nigeria, made these remarks at the Headquarters of the Joint Task Force Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) in Maiduguri.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the minister, accompanied by other senior officials of the UK government, highlighted the importance of the bilateral relationship between the two countries to address security challenges. Coaker expressed that the presence of the Honour Guard was a moving experience, symbolising the respect and partnership between the Nigerian and British militaries. He emphasized that His Majesty’s Government recognizes Nigeria as a key ally and a leader in West Africa, advocating for democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.
The minister reiterated the UK government’s commitment to supporting Nigeria in the fight against terrorism and the shared impact of global security challenges. He stated, “Your conflict is our conflict and your security is our security. The work you are doing to combat terrorism, particularly through initiatives like Operation Hadin Kai, is commendable. We are proud to provide training, expertise, and equipment to support your efforts.”
Coaker detailed the UK’s contributions to counter-insurgency operations, which include counter improvised explosive devices (IED) training, provision of equipment, and mentorship towards the establishment of the Counter-IED Coordination Cell in the North-East.
Maj.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, the Theatre Commander of OPHK, commended the UK for its sustained support in combating insurgency in the region. He described the visit as a testament to the longstanding cordial relationship between Nigeria and the UK. Shaibu welcomed Lord Vernon Coaker and his entourage to Maiduguri, acknowledging the visit as validation of the strong partnership between the two nations.
Shaibu outlined the mandate of the task force, which involves restoring normalcy to the region, providing an enabling environment for socio-economic activities, and resettling displaced persons to their ancestral homes. He emphasized that fulfilling the task force’s mandate requires material resources and regular training of troops to address evolving security challenges.
The commander praised the establishment of the Counter-IED Coordination Cell, supported by the UK, which has become a hub for intelligence gathering and dismantling insurgent IED networks. He noted that the hub, equipped with detection tools, laptops, tactical intelligence kits, and other resources, has been vital in detecting, neutralising, and disarming IEDs effectively.
Shaibu also commended the Instructor Development Programme, implemented in collaboration with BDS-WA, to fast-track the training of personnel from Nigeria and the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF). He mentioned that the programme fosters synergy and camaraderie among troops from the Lake Chad Basin countries, strengthening regional cooperation. He further noted that the UK government’s timely and relevant support is imperative towards achieving the task force’s mandate.