By DAYO ADESULU
Training Aims to Enhance Community Safety in Conflict-Affected Areas
The United Kingdom Government, in partnership with the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS), has successfully conducted Explosive Ordnance Risk Education (EORE) training for 75 officers from the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) and the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). The inaugural training session took place in Maiduguri and concluded on October 4, 2024.
Objective of the Training Program
In a statement released on Monday by Atinuke Akande-Alegbe, the Senior Communications and Public Diplomacy Officer at the British High Commission in Abuja, it was revealed that the program is designed to equip NPF and NSCDC officers with essential skills to educate at-risk communities about the dangers of unexploded ordnance. This initiative aims to significantly reduce the risk of casualties associated with these hazardous materials.
Deployment of Trained Officers
The trained officers will now be deployed to vulnerable areas, where they will share life-saving knowledge with residents about the risks posed by unexploded ordnance. This proactive measure is intended to enhance community awareness and safety in conflict-affected regions.
Significance of the Training
During the closing ceremony, John Sanderson, the Human Security Adviser at the British High Commission, emphasized the critical importance of the training. He stated, “This training is critically important. Police and Civil Defence officers will now be able to deploy to prioritized locations to raise awareness among community members about the risks of explosive ordnance, thereby enhancing human security in high-risk areas affected by conflict.”
Collaboration with UNMAS
Edwin Faigmane, Chief of the UNMAS Mine Action Programme in Nigeria, highlighted the effectiveness of collaborating with the NPF and NSCDC. He noted, “Working with the NPF and NSCDC enables us to deliver these essential life-saving messages in hard-to-reach areas. It also builds sustainability, as the NPF and NSCDC will be present in these areas, working with communities to better protect people from the dangers posed by explosive ordnance.”
Benefits for NSCDC Personnel
NSCDC Commandant Abdulkadir Sulu discussed the benefits of the training, stating, “Acquiring EORE will not only enhance the effectiveness of NSCDC personnel in helping communities affected by explosive remnants of war to stay safe, but it will also significantly contribute to ensuring the safety of our personnel and their families.”
New Training School in Maiduguri
Commissioner of Police Patrick Atayero announced the official commencement of operations at the newly established Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear training school in Maiduguri. He expressed gratitude to UNMAS and the UK Government for their support, describing the initiative as a “milestone” in promoting a safer environment in northeast Nigeria.
Conclusion
The collaboration between the UK Government, UNMAS, and Nigerian security forces marks a significant step toward enhancing community safety in conflict-affected areas. By equipping local officers with the knowledge and skills to educate residents about explosive hazards, the initiative aims to foster a safer environment for all.
