UK, Germany Reaffirm Support for Nigeria’s Anti-Terrorism War

Brigadier Tom Harper, the United Kingdom’s Defence Attaché to Nigeria, and Colonel Boris Bovecamp, Germany’s Defence Attaché, led the delegation during the February 18 visit, underscoring sustained collaboration between their respective countries and the Nigerian Armed Forces.

Harper highlighted the long-standing partnership between the UK and Nigeria, rooted in shared values such as democracy, the rule of law, and human rights. He commended the efforts of Nigerian troops operating under Operation HADIN KAI for their resilience and professionalism in confronting terrorism, particularly the Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) insurgency. As part of the UK’s commitment, he reiterated ongoing and future support through training programmes provided by the British Military Advisory and Training Team (BMATT) to enhance operational skills within the Nigerian military.

Colonel Bovecamp reiterated Germany’s interest in expanding cooperation, particularly in capacity building and regional security partnerships. He said his visit aimed to explore new avenues for future assistance, including initiatives that would strengthen operational effectiveness in collaboration with Nigeria and neighbouring countries.

Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, Theatre Commander of Operation HADIN KAI, thanked the visiting officials for their support, noting that past training and advisory programmes have helped boost Nigerian forces’ skills in dealing with evolving security threats. He outlined key areas for deeper collaboration, including technical expertise, logistics support, and equipment provision.

The visit concluded with the signing of the visitors’ register, presentation of souvenirs, and a group photo, symbolising strengthened defence ties and shared resolve in the collective effort to defeat terrorism in the region.