US prepares Nigerian soldiers for marine war

A three-week training in amphibious and riverine warfare by the US Marine Corps Africa for 100 Nigerian soldiers has ended.

At the training — it held between April 17, 2014, and May 9, 2014 at the Amphibious Training School (ATS), Calabar — the soldiers were drilled on fire team formation, use of micro terrain, preparation for combat, mission planning, shooting position, and casualty evacuation, among others.

Speaking at the grand finale, Brig-Gen. Enang Ukagu, the commander of ATS, emphasised the objective of the training, which was to equip ATS personnel with basic concept of amphibious and riverine operations.

He expressed happiness that the officers who underwent the training have now been exposed to high-level military intelligence and knowledge of combating sea piracy and other forms of illegalities in riverine areas.

“The objective of the training has been achieved, and the soldiers are now combat-ready to engage in any warfare with the enemy in riverine areas,” Ukagu told NAN.

“The US Marine Corps Africa has added value to the capacity building of the Nigerian Army, especially in amphibious and riverine operations. I must commend the graduating soldiers for having gone through the three weeks intensive and rigorous training; may your efforts never be in vain.”

He thanked Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Kenneth Minimah, for authorising the training and also approving funds for it.

Represented by Maj.-Gen. Bamidele Ologundudu, the director of training, Army Headquarters, Abuja, Minimah said soldiers deployed to curtail insecurity in the area will fail in their assignment without effective training.

Also speaking, leader of the US Marine, Captain Peter Kennedy, commended the Nigerian soldiers for their discipline and hard work, and expressed hope that the US Marine and Nigerian Army would be involved in more collaborative military efforts.