The Nigerian Army has deployed newly acquired Mine Resistant Anti-Ambush Personnel (MRAP) Vehicles to the theatre of counter insurgency operations in the Northeast of the country.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai, represented by the Chief of Training and Operations, Maj.-Gen. Enobong Udoh, inducted the vehicles on Tuesday in Maigumeri super camp in Maiduguri.
The ceremony also included Sallah celebration and lunch with troops of the Special Forces in their camp as well as the tour of the camp under renovation by the army.
The MRAPS, which were handed over to the Special Forces Command, was unveiled by the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Gabriel Olonisakin, in July.
Buratai said the MRAP vehicles would offer increased firepower, enhanced force protection against small arms as well as improved capability.
He said that the induction ceremony was a boost to operational capability to decisively prosecute the ongoing counterterrorism operations.
He, however, warned that deploying the equipment without strong will and determination by men, cannot win war.
“You must therefore remain resolute in the discharge of your duties while strengthening your commitment to end this war in no distant time.
“Let me assure you that we shall continue to give due priority and attention to specialised training as well as improve welfare for effective employment of special forces.
“You will recall that the Nigerian Army Special Forces Command was established recently to coordinate deployment and employment of all Special Forces across the country.
“This has brought about effective and efficient utilisation of special forces within the theatre of operation.
“The recent recapture of Baga by the special forces is most instructive in this regard,” he said.
Earlier, the Commander, Special Forces Command, Maj.-Gen. Mhounday Ali, said the provision of the MRAPs would spur the command to ensure that remnants of ISWAP and Boko Haram were swept off Nigeria’s territory.
He said the command had resolved since its establishment in 2018 to look inward in fabricating the needed weapons and vehicle spares.
According to him, the command has also resolved that the hunt for ISWAP/Boko Haram terrorists and their leaders will continue to soar until it is brought to an end in favour of the country.
MM/GIK/APA