Boko Haram: U.S begins training of Nigerian soldiers

The United States of America have commeneced training exercise of at least 750 soldiers selected from various units of the Nigerian Army. The training which began on Wednesday at Jaji, Kaduna State involves soldiers fighting the Islamist sect. 

The U.S Ambassador to Nigeria , James Entwistle, who said during the inauguration ceremony of the 145 Battalion training, at the Nigerian Army School of Infantry (NASI), Jaji, said it was important other countries joined Nigeria in the fight against terrorism. 

”Nigeria, U.S. partnership extends beyond immediate gains, we need to work together to rebuild the North-East. We are two great democracies and we do many great things together,” he stressed.

Chief of Defence Staff, General Abayomi Olonisakin, said the training and other joint initiatives between the two countries will be put into use and said the U.S military will assist in professionalising the Nigerian 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.”

In his speech, Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai urged the soldiers to work hard towards achieving the goals of the training.

“I am confident the U.S. Training team with the support of the Commandant and Instructors of NASI are prepared to give you the highest quality of instruction,” he added.