The UK Government on Friday donated advanced counter-Improvised Explosive Device (IED) equipment to the Operation Hadin Kai Theatre Command Joint Task Force in Maiduguri.
This donation marks a significant milestone in the strategic partnership between the UK and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The equipment, primarily designed for military and law enforcement use, is intended for the standoff detection of explosives and explosive precursor components, as well as defeating IEDs.
The handover took place in the presence of senior officers from the Nigerian Army and was conducted by representatives of the British Defence Staff West Africa.
UK Defence Attaché to Nigeria, Col. Matt Lynch, emphasized the UK government’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s military in combating terrorism, particularly in the Northeast.
“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 IED ambushes while in operations,” he stated.
He added that the new equipment includes specialized IED detectors and tools designed for identifying and safely neutralizing explosive threats.
Brig.-Gen. Abdulrazak Kazeem, Commander of the 47 Engineer Brigade, highlighted the importance of the donation, calling it “timely” given recent developments in counter-IED operations.
He noted that the equipment would support both operational and training efforts, covering the full spectrum of IED countermeasures.
“This equipment arrives at a crucial moment, allowing us to enhance our proactive approach in detecting and neutralizing threats in the field,” Kazeem said.
He explained that with the new capabilities, the military could analyze and identify areas where IEDs are manufactured, enabling direct attacks on bomb-making locations. “Our aim is to reduce casualties and prevent IEDs from being deployed against our forces and communities,” he added.
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Kazeem also mentioned that some tools would be designated for training, ensuring personnel are well-prepared and strategies remain effective across all phases of counter-IED operations.
The Theatre Commander, Maj.-Gen. Waidi Shuaibu, expressed gratitude for the UK’s ongoing support, which includes training for Nigerian Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) operators and the establishment of a Counter-IED Coordination Cell at the 47 Engineer Brigade.
He remarked, “These initiatives, along with previous assistance, clearly demonstrate their commitment to fully neutralizing IED threats to the theatre.”
Waidi noted that the support significantly contributes to the mandate of Operation Hadin Kai, aiming to restore stability in the Northeast and foster an environment conducive to socio-economic activities. He assured that the donated equipment would enhance the troops’ capacity to mitigate IED threats.
“I want to extend my sincere appreciation to the British Defence Section for their continued support in building the capacity of our EOD operators,” he concluded, expressing gratitude to Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff and the Service Chiefs for their unwavering support and guidance.
