The U.S. Defence Attaché, Col. Thomas Brooks, aims to enhance military training ties with the Nigerian Navy. This visit to the Western Naval Command emphasizes cooperation to address maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea, strengthening the existing partnership. Rear Adm. Micheal Oamen supports this effort, highlighting the importance of training and readiness for maintaining Nigeria’s economic stability through secure maritime activities.
Col. Thomas Brooks, the Defence Attaché from the U.S. Embassy, has expressed a desire to strengthen military relations between the United States and Nigeria, focusing specifically on the Nigerian Navy. During his visit to the Western Naval Command in Apapa, Lagos, Brooks emphasized the importance of expanding training programs between both nations. This introductory visit marked his role as the new U.S. Defence Attaché to Nigeria, underscoring Nigeria’s historical significance as a strong security partner.
Brooks highlighted that Nigeria possesses the largest and most capable navy in the Gulf of Guinea. The U.S. government is committed to enhancing this partnership and providing ongoing support to Nigeria. He articulated that understanding the challenges and priorities of the Nigerian Navy is crucial for identifying collaborative efforts to improve communication and support. This will help the U.S. military address Nigeria’s security concerns through enhanced training initiatives.
Furthermore, Brooks underscored the necessity of increased cooperation between the U.S. Navy, the Nigerian Navy, and allied naval forces in Europe and Africa to bolster security in the Gulf of Guinea. Rear Adm. Micheal Oamen, the Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command, reaffirmed the robust relationship between the Nigerian Navy and the U.S. Navy, particularly in areas of training and joint exercises which have proven beneficial in maintaining readiness.
Oamen acknowledged Brooks’ commitment to enhancing training initiatives and highlighted the importance of enhancing the Nigerian Navy’s capacity to counter maritime threats. He emphasized that the economic stability of Nigeria as a maritime nation is intrinsically tied to the security of its waters, as 80 percent of the nation’s foreign exchange is generated through maritime activities. With well-trained personnel, the Nigerian Navy can secure the Gulf of Guinea more effectively. This sentiment was echoed as he expressed hope for continued growth in the relationship between the U.S. and Nigeria in the future.
The U.S. and Nigeria are poised to enhance their military training ties, particularly through the Nigerian Navy. Col. Thomas Brooks’ visit signifies the commitment of the U.S. government to support Nigeria’s significant naval capabilities. This collaborative effort aims to bolster maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea and address pressing security challenges, ensuring both nations benefit from improved relations and joint training programs.
Original Source: prnigeria.com
