The Nigerian Army has commenced a training programme in Kaduna to enhance the skills of its engineers in tackling the growing threat posed by Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) during security operations.
The seminar, organised by the 41 Engineer Brigade of the 1 Division Nigerian Army, was held as part of activities marking the graduation of participants in the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) X2 Course 126.
Speaking at the event, the Commander of the Corps of Engineers, Maj.-Gen. S.T. Shafaru, represented by Maj.-Gen. Josiah Attah, said the training was designed to equip Army engineers with the skills required to better support military operations across Nigeria.
He explained that new members of the Nigerian Army Corps of Engineers undergo training in combat engineering, field engineering and technical skills before taking on specialised responsibilities.
Shafaru said the EOD course was introduced to address the shortage of bomb disposal experts and strengthen the Army’s operational capacity.
He warned that “Improvised Explosive Devices have become one of the greatest security threats confronting the Nigerian Army in ongoing counter-insurgency operations. Their widespread use has complicated military operations and humanitarian activities in conflict-affected areas.”
According to him, Army engineers regularly clear roads and other areas of explosive devices to ensure the safe movement of troops and civilians, while EOD specialists are trained to detect, disarm and safely destroy explosives.
He added that the Army was working with other security agencies and international partners, including the British Military Assistance Training Team and the German Training and Assistance Group, to improve expertise and intelligence sharing.
Shafaru also urged members of the public to report suspicious objects or activities, saying such information could help security agencies prevent attacks before they occur.
Nigerian Army trains engineers to combat rising bomb threats