The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbeokun, on Thursday urged personnel of the Nigeria Police Anti-Bom Squad to be proactive and professional in carrying out their mandate.
The IGP addressed a gathering of Explosive Ordnance Disposal – Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (EOD-CBRN) Commanders and Directing Staff at the IGP’s Conference Hall, Force Headquarters, Abuja, during which he acknowledged the outstanding service of the Unit in safeguarding the country against evolving threats associated with explosive materials.
Highlighting the unit’s pivotal role during the Boko Haram insurgency, the IGP commended their efforts in bringing an end to incessant bombing activities. He specifically mentioned recent achievements, including the safe rendering of an Anti-disturbance IED at the University of Maiduguri and road clearance operations in various locations in Borno State, facilitating the reintegration of citizens into their ancestral homes. The IGP also acknowledged the Unit for recovering five IEDs from an unregistered vehicle after neutralizing three members of a separatist group in Anambra State.
Addressing the evolving nature of security challenges across the country, the IGP urged EOD Commanders to be more active, vigilant, and responsive in monitoring the production, importation, storage, transportation, distribution, and usage of explosives nationwide emphasizing the need for professionalism in efforts to combat armed and violent criminals.
The Inspector-General of Police while expressing full confidence in the abilities and dedication of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Units, reiterated the commitment of the NPF under his leadership to investing in trainings and equipping EOD personnel with the latest technologies to enhance their capabilities.