U.S. Army Special Forces conclude training with Nigeria Navy Special Boat Service | The Guardian Nigeria News

[FILE PHOTO] Nigerian Navy

25 officers of the Nigerian Navy Special Boat Service completed a five-week Joint Combined Exchange Training (JCET) together with a team from US Army Special Forces.

Throughout JCET, the American military trainers and the Nigerian Navy’s special forces trained a wide range of land-based skills and tactics, such as: B. Combating improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

The exercise is part of a series of U.S. engagements with the Nigerian military that provide an opportunity for the Nigerian military and elite U.S. forces to work together, learn from one another, and strengthen relationships.

During the JCET graduation ceremony in Lagos, Merrica Heaton, acting head of the U.S. Consulate for Politics and Business, said the U.S. government is working closely with all Nigerian military services to provide technical assistance, equipment, and professional exchanges and training opportunities.

According to her, the JCET is part of a close and ongoing military partnership between the United States and Nigeria that spans decades to strengthen defense ties and promote regional security.

“The United States Mission in Nigeria is a staunch partner – helping fight sea crime in the Gulf of Guinea, fight violent extremists in the northeast, and enforce the rule of law across the region,” Heaton said.

The extent of the engagement this summer shows the strategic importance of bilateral relations between the US and Nigeria: The US is supplying A-29 SUPER TUCANOs as part of the largest arms sale to an African country; the U.S. Navy, Coast Guard, and Marine Corps are slated for extensive programs in Nigeria that go beyond pre-COVID-19 levels. These commitments build on a longstanding security partnership, particularly in the Gulf of Guinea.

Nigeria participates in several bilateral and multilateral military exercises with the United States, including the African Lion, Flintlock, and Obangame Express.

The USA and Nigeria are cooperating on maritime security, military professionalization including human rights, the fight against terrorism against Boko Haram and ISIS West Africa, defense trade and strengthening of governance.