US Army SpecOps, Nigerian Navy SBS hold joint training

Nigerian Navy Special Boat Service troopers and operators of the U.S. Army 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne) on Thursday, completed a five-week Joint Combined Exchange Training (JCET).

Both forces trained together on several land-based skills and tactics, such as countering improvised explosive devises (IEDs).

The exercise is part of a series of U.S. engagements with the Nigerian military that provide opportunities for the elite units to work together, learn from each other, and strengthen relationships.

At the closing ceremony in Lagos, Acting U.S. Consulate Political and Economic Chief Merrica Heaton noted that America works closely with the Nigerian military to provide technical assistance, equipment, and professional exchange and training.

The long-standing U.S.-Nigerian partnership aims for a secure Nigeria & Gulf of Guinea, says the U.S. Mission in Nigeria.

She said the JCET is part of decades of partnership between the United States and Nigeria to strengthen defense ties and promote regional security.

“The United States Mission to Nigeria is a steadfast partner – helping combat maritime crime in the Gulf of Guinea, counter violent extremists in the Northeast, and enforce the rule of law throughout the region,” Heaton said.

The U.S. Special Operations Command Africa made a statement today regarding the exercise that “Exercises like these are part of a series of U.S. engagements with African partner nations. They are an opportunity for elite U.S. units and African partners to work together, learn from each other, and strengthen relationships.”

The United States also carried out the JCET exercise with Ivory Coast which took place in on 9 July, and Morocco in July 19, 2021.