The United Kingdom gave the Nigerian Army some special tools that are not for fighting but to help them, and these tools are worth about N1 billion (£450,000).
This help is for Nigeria as they face dangerous groups in the North East. It also shows that the UK and Nigeria’s armies are becoming better friends.
There was a special event in a place called Maiduguri where these tools were handed over to Major General Wahidi Shaibu who leads the team fighting in the North East.
The things they gave are clever tools to help the Nigerian soldiers in their fight against the bad groups.
Besides giving these tools, the UK is also teaching the Nigerian soldiers new skills they need for their work in that area.
A group of 20 people from the British Army are in Maiduguri right now teaching Nigerian soldiers important skills to keep fighting against the bad groups. The UK promised to hold more classes seven times till February 2025. These classes will teach special skills for Nigeria, so they can stay safe in the future.
Working Together as Friends
Colonel Martin Leach, who helps lead Britain’s military team in West Africa, talked about how important the friendship between the UK and Nigeria is, especially in stopping the bad groups.
He said during the event, “I’m happy to give these tools today and see our friendship with Nigeria grow stronger. The UK is here to help Nigeria fight against the bad groups in the North East.”
The UK not only gives tools and teaches, but they also have some people working in a special team in Maiduguri. This team, from both UK and Nigerian Armies, looks at information about the bombers who hurt people and soldiers. They want to stop these bomb attacks so everyone can be safer.
More Learning Coming Up
The UK will give seven more classes soon. These classes are to give Nigerian soldiers even more clever skills, so they can keep the peace and fight against the dangerous groups in Nigeria.
What the UK gave Nigeria shows that they want to be even better friends. It helps Nigeria’s fighting skills grow stronger and keeps them ready to face the bad guys in the future.
Things You Should Know
In another news, China’s President Xi Jinping promised to give $50 billion and more help to African countries over the next three years.
- Xi talked about making friends with Africa, saying this time is great for their friendship.
- The $50 billion is for loans, help, and business investments. It’s more than the $30 billion from three years ago but less than the $60 billion they promised in 2015 and 2018.
Xi also said they will give $280 million for army and food help, with $140 million for army support, which is the most given in military aid during the Forum.