The Federal Government has stepped up efforts to address the rising threat of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) deployed by terrorist groups across the country.
The renewed effort is being carried out in collaboration with the United Nations and other international partners as part of measures to enhance Nigeria’s counter-terrorism capabilities.
Speaking during a Counter-Improvised Explosive Device workshop held in Abuja on Wednesday, the National Coordinator of the National Counter Terrorism Centre, Adamu Laka, described IEDs as one of the most dangerous threats confronting security forces during anti-terror operations.
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The workshop was organised by the National Counter Terrorism Centre in partnership with the United Nations Mine Action Service and the British High Commission.
Laka noted that the use of IEDs by insurgent groups has become increasingly sophisticated over the years, with terrorists continually developing new detonation methods that pose serious risks to troops and civilians.
He explained that the devices have been widely used in attacks, particularly in Nigeria’s North-East and North-West regions, where security forces have been battling insurgency and banditry.
According to him, strengthening technical knowledge, training and coordination among security agencies remains critical in reducing the impact of IED attacks and improving the country’s overall response to terrorism.