Multinational Joint Taskforce (MNJTF) and the United Kingdom have indicated their readiness to strengthen military ties in counter insurgency operations within the Lake Chad Region.
This was reflected during the recent visit by the Commander Operation TURUS, Colonel Rory Shannon to HQ MNJTF, N’Djamena.
The Force Commander (FC) MNJTF Major General Abdul Khalifah Ibrahim while receiving the delegation highlighted that the recorded achievements have so far enabled the return to normalcy in most areas previously occupied by the terrorists in the Lake Chad basin.
General Ibrahim said, MNJTF facilitated the restoration of local authorities in towns and villages such as Baga, Banki, Baroua, Amchide being towns in Nigeria, Niger and Cameroun where Internally Displaced Persons and refugees, who have retuned are living in a peaceful environment.
The FC acknowledged his regular working visits to the HQ MNJTF. Thus, he proposed a field visit to one of the sectors in his subsequent visits, in a bid to have first hand information on the progress of the MNJTF activities.
While expressing gratitude for the warmth reception, Colonel Rory stated that his role is to provide command and control to assigned British troops in west Africa and the Lake Chad Basin region.
He equally commended British personnel embedded in Centre Coordination and Liaison (CCL), which is one of the MNJTF strategic partners.
The Commander applauded the operational efforts of the MNJTF, which has taken great strides to counter terrorism, he recognized that the MNJTF is a unique structure that has a real military bearing in the fight against insurgents in the region.
Colonel Rory assured that UK through the CCL, will continue to provide necessary training assistance to enhance the Force operational capabilities, as well as humanitarian support to the affected population.
He acknowledged that the MNJTF operates in a complex environment, faced with daunting operational challenges, as such he promised to present these challenges for possible additional support.
The Commander urged for more ways that can strengthen the partnership and collaboration in support of MNJTF activities.
