Colonel Thomas Brooks, U.S. Defence Attaché, emphasizes enhancing military ties with Nigeria, focusing on the Nigerian Navy. His visit aims to expand training programs and improve cooperation, acknowledging Nigeria’s pivotal role in maritime security within the Gulf of Guinea. The Nigerian Navy’s strength and the existing partnership are critical for regional stability and economic survival.
The U.S. Embassy’s Defence Attaché, Colonel Thomas Brooks, has expressed a commitment to fortifying military ties between the United States and Nigeria, specifically focusing on enhancing the capabilities of the Nigerian Navy. His recent visit to the Western Naval Command in Apapa, Lagos, underscored the need for expanded training programs between the two nations, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in maritime security.
During his introductory visit as the new U.S. Defence Attaché to Nigeria, Colonel Brooks articulated the significant role Nigeria plays as a security partner, particularly noting its status as the largest and most formidable navy in the Gulf of Guinea. He highlighted that the U.S. government acknowledges and values this partnership and is dedicated to providing continued support to Nigeria in addressing its maritime security challenges.
Colonel Brooks stated, “My visit to the command is to meet with the commander of the Western Naval Command, to better understand its challenges and priorities.” He expressed the objective of identifying avenues for coordinated efforts, improving dialogue, and exploring potential areas where U.S. military resources can assist the Nigerian military in enhancing overall security frameworks and training initiatives.
The collaboration between the U.S. Navy and Nigerian Navy aims at fortifying security measures in the Gulf of Guinea. Colonel Brooks reiterated, “Nigeria has historically been a very strong security partner,” acknowledging Nigeria’s essential role in regional security efforts and the critical responsibilities it undertakes within the maritime domain.
Rear Admiral Micheal Oamen, the Flag Officer Commanding of the Western Naval Command, affirmed the robust partnership between the Nigerian Navy and the U.S. Navy, particularly in terms of training and joint military exercises. He noted that the collaboration has significantly benefited the Nigerian Navy, enhancing personnel training and readiness to address maritime threats effectively.
Rear Admiral Oamen commended the defence attaché’s commitment to bolstering training and exercise opportunities, asserting that these initiatives would improve the Nigerian Navy’s preparedness for maritime challenges. He highlighted that securing the Gulf of Guinea is vital for Nigeria’s economic stability, as 80 percent of the nation’s foreign exchange relies on maritime activities.
In summary, Colonel Thomas Brooks’ visit signifies a renewed commitment to strengthening the military relationship between the United States and Nigeria, particularly through the enhancement of training programs within the Nigerian Navy. The ongoing cooperation aims to bolster maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea, highlighting the strategic importance of Nigeria as a security partner in the region. The collaboration between the two navies is expected to yield significant contributions to improving personnel readiness and operational effectiveness.
Original Source: prnigeria.com
