Nigerian Army Trains Bomb Disposal Experts Amid Rising IED Threat

The Nigerian Army has initiated a seminar in Kaduna to bolster the capabilities of its engineers in confronting the escalating threat posed by Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) in current security operations. The event, organized by the 41 Engineer Brigade of the 1 Division Nigerian Army, coincided with the graduation of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) X2 Course 126.

Maj.-Gen. S.T. Shafaru, Commander of the Corps of Engineers, represented by Maj.-Gen. Josiah Attah, stated that the training is designed to equip Nigerian Army engineers with essential skills to effectively support ongoing military operations nationwide. This initiative aligns with a vision to enhance the army's adaptability and resilience in joint and multi-agency operations. Newly recruited personnel receive foundational training in combat, field engineering, and artisan skills at the Nigerian Army School of Military Engineering before specializing.

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Improvised Explosive Devices have become one of the greatest security threats confronting the Nigerian Army in ongoing counter-insurgency operations.

Shafaru highlighted that the EOD course was established to address a shortage of specialists and augment the corps' operational effectiveness. "Improvised Explosive Devices have become one of the greatest security threats confronting the Nigerian Army in ongoing counter-insurgency operations," he noted. He explained that the widespread use of IEDs complicates military actions and humanitarian efforts in conflict zones.

Army engineers regularly conduct clearance operations to detect and neutralize explosive devices, ensuring safe passage for troops and civilians. EOD specialists are trained to identify, disarm, and safely destroy these explosives. The corps actively collaborates with other security agencies and international partners, including the British Military Assistance Training Team and the German Training and Assistance Group, to refine technical expertise and intelligence sharing. Shafaru also emphasized the importance of public awareness campaigns, urging citizens to report suspicious objects and activities to aid security agencies in preventing attacks. He described the seminar as timely, underscoring the need for continuous capacity building due to the increasing use of IEDs across operational theaters. The German Training and Assistance Group has been supporting participants of the Medium Explosive Ordnance Disposal Course.

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Their widespread use has complicated military operations and humanitarian activities in conflict-affected areas.