The United States yesterday stated that Nigeria cannot fight insurgency and win the war without necessary assistance from developed countries.
The US Ambassador to Nigeria, James Entwistle, stated this at the commencement of the training assistance by the US government to about 750 soldiers from selected units of the Nigerian army.
The US Ambassador to Nigeria emphasised the need for other nations to join hands with Nigeria in the fight against terrorism, as Nigeria cannot do it alone.
At the inauguration ceremony of the 145 battalion training which is holding at the Nigerian Army School of Infantry (NASI), Jaji, the US Ambassador said: “I have always emphasised on partnership with Nigeria and this training is a perfect example of that partnership.
“Nigeria, US partnership extends beyond immediate gains, we need to work together to rebuild the North-East. We are two great democracies and we have many great things together.”
In his speech, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Abayomi Olonisakin, who is also the special guest at the event, noted that the partnership between the US army and Nigerian armed forces is strategically borne out of shared commitment to counter terrorism and violent extremism.
“This partnership has continued to improve in many important areas one of which is in the security realm. The excellent relationship has led to several joint initiatives one of which is the commitment of the United States and her military to assist Nigeria in professionalising our security forces.
”Let me add that the training being conducted for this battalion and indeed other support that the Armed Forces of Nigeria will be getting from the United States as our strategic partnership will be better put to use.
“This is the only way to justify the enormous efforts and resources committed by both the Nigerian and American governments in organising and implementing this training programme.” the CDS said.
Also speaking, Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General. Tukur Buratai noted that the recent security challenges being faced in the country requires dynamic command and leadership to overcome it, hence the need for the training.
“As you are aware, the security challenges that have confronted the Nigerian Army in contemporary times are remarkably different from the ones we have in the past.
“So I implore you to work hard towards achieving the goals of this training. I am confident the US Training team with the support of the Commandant and In?structors of NASI are prepared to give you the highest quality of instruction.” he admonished the participants.
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