By Nkechi Eze
Defence Attachés of the United Kingdom and Germany to Nigeria, Brigadier Tom Harper and Colonel Boris Bovecamp, have reaffirmed their countries’ commitment to supporting Nigeria’s fight against terrorism and insurgency during a strategic visit to the Headquarters of the Joint Task Force, Operation HADIN KAI, in Maiduguri.
The assurance was conveyed during their visit to the Theatre Command on Wednesday, February 18, as part of ongoing international collaboration to strengthen counter-insurgency operations in Nigeria’s North East.
In a statement signed by the Media Information Officer of Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Brigadier Tom Harper emphasised the strong and enduring relationship between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, anchored on mutual respect and shared values.
He commended the Nigerian Armed Forces for their resilience and commitment in combating terrorism in the North East, particularly through Operation HADIN KAI, and reaffirmed the UK’s readiness to sustain its support.
Harper said the United Kingdom remains committed to enhancing the operational capacity of Nigerian troops through continued training programmes facilitated by the British Military Advisory Team.
“The United Kingdom values its enduring partnership with Nigeria and remains committed to supporting efforts that promote the rule of law, democracy, and human rights,” he stated, while praising the progress made by Nigerian forces in degrading terrorist activities.
Similarly, the German Defence Attaché, Colonel Boris Bovecamp, said his visit was aimed at exploring further areas of cooperation with the Nigerian military, particularly in capacity building and regional security collaboration.
He explained that Germany was interested in identifying opportunities for future interventions that would enhance operational effectiveness and strengthen joint efforts to defeat terrorism.
According to him, regional cooperation and sustained training initiatives remain critical components in addressing evolving security threats.
Responding, the Theatre Commander of Operation HADIN KAI, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, expressed appreciation for the continued support from both countries, describing their contributions as vital to the success of ongoing counter-insurgency operations.
He noted that training support provided by international partners had significantly improved the skills, professionalism, and operational readiness of troops.
Abubakar further highlighted areas of future collaboration, including technical expertise, equipment provision, and logistics support, which he said would enhance the overall effectiveness of military operations in the theatre.
He emphasised that such partnerships were mutually beneficial and critical in sustaining the gains recorded against insurgents.
The visit concluded with the signing of the visitors’ register, presentation of souvenirs, and a group photograph, symbolising the strengthening defence cooperation between Nigeria and its international partners in the collective fight against terrorism.
