The United Kingdom Government, in partnership with the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) in a move to enhance public safety in conflict-affected regions, has completed the first round of Explosive Ordnance Risk Education (EORE) training for 75 officers from the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) and the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
It was learnt that the inaugural training session was held in Maiduguri, Borno State Capital, concluded on October 4, 2024.
The training according to report aims to equip security officers with the skills to educate communities at risk of encountering unexploded ordnance, thereby reducing casualties in vulnerable areas.
This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to address the dangers posed by explosive remnants of war in northeastern Nigeria, a region heavily affected by conflict with insurgent groups.
In a statement released on Monday, Atinuke Akande-Alegbe, Senior Communications and Public Diplomacy Officer at the British High Commission in Abuja, highlighted the significance of the collaboration, emphasizing the life-saving potential of the training.
“The programme was designed to empower NPF and NSCDC officers to share critical safety information with at-risk communities, ensuring that they can respond more effectively to the dangers posed by unexploded ordnance,” she said.
John Sanderson, Human Security Adviser at the British High Commission, who Spoke at the closing ceremony, highlighted the importance of the training.
“This is a critical step toward enhancing human security in high-risk areas. The trained officers will now be able to deploy to prioritised locations to raise awareness about the risks of explosive ordnance, contributing to a safer environment for all,” Sanderson said.
Edwin Faigmane, Chief of the UNMAS Mine Action Programme in Nigeria, praised the partnership with Nigerian authorities, stating, “Working with the NPF and NSCDC allows us to reach hard-to-access communities, ensuring that essential life-saving messages are delivered to those who need them most. This collaboration will help build long-term safety and sustainability in these areas.”
NSCDC Commandant Abdulkadir Sulu also noted the dual benefit of the training, highlighting how it will enhance both community safety and the protection of security personnel.
“Acquiring EORE skills will not only make NSCDC personnel more effective in helping affected communities stay safe, but it will also contribute to the safety of our officers and their families,” Sulu noted.
Commissioner of Police Patrick Atayero further announced the opening of a new Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear training school in Maiduguri, marking a key milestone in the region’s safety efforts.
The initiative was described as a “milestone” by Atayero, who expressed deep gratitude to the UK Government and UNMAS for their continued support in promoting a safer environment in northeastern Nigeria.
