The United Kingdom’s deputy chief of the defence staff, Charlie Collins, has arrived in Maiduguri, Borno State, to reinforce ongoing counterterrorism cooperation between Nigeria and the UK.
The British Defence Staff West Africa confirmed the visit on Tuesday, stating that it forms part of efforts to observe UK-Nigeria military collaboration and support Nigeria-led security operations aimed at stabilising the region.
Collins is expected to engage with personnel of the Nigerian Army during the visit, with discussions centred on strengthening operational coordination in counterinsurgency efforts in the North-East.
Borno State remains a key theatre in Nigeria’s long-running battle against Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) activity, with ongoing military operations focused on restoring stability and securing affected communities.
The visit follows renewed diplomatic engagement between both countries on security matters, including President Bola Tinubu’s recent remarks during his state visit to the United Kingdom, where he highlighted the importance of sustained partnership in addressing terrorism challenges across the Sahel.
The British Defence Staff West Africa said the engagement provides an opportunity to assess cooperation on the ground and support continued efforts toward regional security.