Operation Resilient Shield

Operation Resilient Shield

Location: Nigeria

Written by A.Jansen

Background

We will be deploying to Nigeria, a member nation of the Commonwealth, which is in the midst of severe unrest, to help secure oil assets and assist in stabilization. Despite its vast oil reserves, Nigeria has been on the brink of collapse for several years due to a combination of climate-related disasters, economic turmoil, and political instability.

Current Crisis

Nigeria, one of Africa's largest and most resource-rich nations, is grappling with the fallout from prolonged droughts, floods, and heatwaves that have devastated agriculture and led to widespread food shortages, displacement, and poverty. The collapse of global oil prices, exacerbated by the recent European conflict, has further crippled Nigeria’s economy, causing foreign investment to evaporate and infrastructure to deteriorate.

Political and Social Landscape

The country's already fragile political system, plagued by ethnic, religious, and political tensions, has deteriorated further. The wealth gap between the oil-rich elite and the impoverished masses, coupled with endemic corruption, has fueled deep-seated resentment. The central government in Abuja is barely functional, relying on a dwindling military presence as regional factions vie for control.

• North: Islamist extremist groups have gained power, exploiting the weakened state control and power vacuum. These groups, some linked to transnational terrorist networks, seek to establish their own state and resist foreign intervention.

• South: The oil-rich Niger Delta is a battleground where militant groups like the New Delta Liberation Front (NDLF) aggressively attack oil infrastructure to seize control of the remaining resources. These groups demand a larger share of the oil profits and threaten global energy markets by potentially cutting off oil exports.

Operational Challenges

We face a perilous mission in Nigeria. We must restore order, protect critical oil infrastructure, and navigate a complex landscape of local allegiances and rebel factions. With Nigeria’s neighbors keenly observing and potentially exploiting the situation, the CJTF's efforts could have significant implications for both Nigeria and the broader Commonwealth. The line between peacekeeping and full-scale conflict is precariously thin, making our mission both crucial and fraught with risk.

Situation

1. Enemy Forces:

• Rebel Groups: Insurgent factions operating in Nigeria, including local militias and extremist groups. Known to be hostile towards foreign intervention and may attempt to disrupt CJTF operations.

• Proxy Forces: Potential involvement of proxy forces backed by China, equipped with advanced weaponry and specialized tactics. These groups may focus on targeting strategic assets such as oil infrastructure.

2. Friendly Forces:

• Commonwealth Joint Task Force (CJTF)

• Local Forces: Nigerian military units and allied paramilitary groups, which may be fragmented or unreliable due to the ongoing instability.

3. Terrain:

• Airport Area: The international airport is partially operational but under threat. Urban terrain with potential for insurgent activity and limited infrastructure.

• Embassy/Military Base: The embassy or allied base is a secure location but might be subject to attacks or pressure from insurgent forces.

4. Weather:

• October Climate: Expect variable weather conditions, including potential rainfall and high humidity. These conditions can affect operational planning and execution.

Mission

Phase 1: Secure the international airport and establish a defensive perimeter to ensure CJTF forces can safely deploy and operate.

Phase 2: Move to the nearest secure location (embassy or allied military base) and establish a base of operations to coordinate further actions and initiate reconnaissance for securing strategic oil assets.

Execution

1. Concept of Operations:

• Phase 1:

• Airborne Insertion: CJTF forces will arrive at the international airport via air transport. Immediate priority is to secure the landing zone and airport facilities.

• Perimeter Security: Establish defensive positions around the airport to protect against potential attacks from insurgents or local hostile elements.

• Phase 2:

• Movement to Secure Location: Once the airport is secured, CJTF forces will move to the nearest secure location, such as an embassy or allied military base. Ensure all routes are cleared and secure.

• Base Establishment: Set up a fully operational base, including defensive fortifications, communication systems, and coordination centers.

• Initial Reconnaissance: Deploy reconnaissance teams to assess the situation in the surrounding areas, particularly focusing on oil assets and potential threats from insurgents or proxy forces.

Admin/Logistics

1. Supply and Support:

• Immediate Needs: Ensure the rapid deployment of essential supplies, including ammunition, medical supplies, and equipment for setting up defensive positions.

2. Medical Support:

• Field Medical Units: Must be self suficient, urgent medevac unavailable.
• Evacuation Plans: Develop and implement evacuation plans for injured personnel if needed.

Command & Signal