The United States, in collaboration with the Nigerian Navy Special Boat Service, has carried out training on countering improvised explosive devices.

In a statement released by the U.S. consulate in Lagos, 25 officers of the Special Boat Service have rounded up a five-week Joint Combined Exchange Training (JCET) alongside a team of U.S. Army Special Forces on Thursday.

During the training, both American military and Nigerian naval officers covered a range of land-based skills and tactics, including countering improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

The statement said the exercise was part of a series of U.S. engagements that provide opportunities for Nigerian and U.S. security units to work together, learn from each other, and strengthen relationships.

The acting U.S. Consulate Political and Economic Chief Merrica Heaton addressed the JCET closing ceremony in Lagos, noting the U.S. government’s commitment to working with the Nigerian military to provide technical assistance, equipment, and training opportunities.

Ms Heaton maintained that the JCET was part of a continuous military partnership between the U.S. and Nigeria to strengthen defence 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,” Ms Heaton said in the statement.

The statement underlined the importance of the collaboration between the countries, with the U.S. delivering A-29 Super Tucanos in what it described as “part of the largest defence sale to an African country” as well as mentioning training programmes lined up by the U.S. Navy, Coast Guard, and Marine Corps.