Counter Terrorism: OPHK hosts UK Dep Chief of Defence Staff

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By Ndahi Marama, Maiduguri

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The Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) yesterday hosted the United Kingdom Deputy Chief of Defence Staff (Military Strategy and Operations), Lieutenant General Charlie Collins, and his delegation during a strategic visit to Maiduguri, Borno State.

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The visit underscores the enduring defence partnership between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, as well as the shared commitment of both nations to strengthening regional security, countering terrorism, and enhancing military professionalism through sustained cooperation.

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During the engagement, Lieutenant General Collins reaffirmed the United Kingdom’s commitment to continued collaboration with Nigeria, emphasizing the importance of building on the longstanding relationship between the two countries to address contemporary security challenges.

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The Theatre Commander, Operation HADIN KAI, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, expressed appreciation for the United Kingdom’s support to ongoing capacity-building efforts. Air Vice Marshal Olusola Akinboyewa, the Deputy Theatre Commander who held brief, highlighted the value of strategic partnerships, training cooperation, and professional military development in consolidating operational gains and advancing lasting peace and stability across the North East.

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Highlights of the visit included inspecting a Quarter Guard and observing a practical field training exercise conducted under the auspices of the British Military Advisory and Training Team (BMATT). The training reflects the continued commitment of both partners to capability development and professional military education, key enablers of operational effectiveness, sustained battlefield successes, and long-term security and stability in the North East. End

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