US Initiates Tactical Training for Nigerian Troops in Bauchi

The United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) has initiated drone and tactical training for Nigerian troops at an undisclosed location in Bauchi State, Nigeria. This training is part of a broader US-Nigeria security cooperation mission aimed at enhancing military capability and readiness.

The training encompasses unmanned aircraft systems, Combat Lifesaver and Tactical Combat Casualty Care instruction, weapons familiarisation, camouflage, water treatment and testing, explosive ordnance disposal, and small-unit tactics. Capt Gabriel Feingold, a logistics officer assigned to the US Army Southern European Task Force, stated that US units provided Nigerian leadership with a list of training options, from which they selected areas of interest.

Notably, unmanned aircraft systems generated significant interest among Nigerian forces, with Sgt Mark Murphy leading training sessions for about 10 members of the Nigerian Air Force Special Forces Regiment. The joint exercises not only focused on technical skills but also aimed to foster relationships and improve interoperability between the two nations' service members.