The Nigerian Army has intensified efforts to strengthen its capacity to combat the growing threat posed by Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) through specialised training for military engineers and enhanced collaboration with international partners.
The initiative was highlighted during a seminar organised by the 41 Engineer Brigade under the 1 Division Nigerian Army in Kaduna as part of activities marking the graduation of Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) X2 Course 126.
The training programme, supported by the British Military Assistance Training Team (BMATT) and the German Training and Assistance Group (GTAG), is designed to equip Nigerian Army engineers with advanced skills to detect, neutralise and safely dispose of improvised explosive devices during military operations.
Representing the Commander, Corps of Engineers, Major General Shamsideen Shafaru, Major General Josiah Attah said the programme reflects the Nigerian Army’s commitment to building a highly skilled engineering corps capable of supporting ongoing security operations across the country.
He explained that the increasing use of IEDs by insurgents and other criminal groups has become one of the most significant threats confronting security forces, making specialised training and international cooperation essential.
According to him, strengthening the technical expertise of military engineers will improve operational effectiveness and enhance the Army’s ability to protect personnel and civilians in conflict-affected areas.
The seminar was held under the theme:
“Building Nigerian Army Engineers’ Capacity on Counter-Improvised Explosive Devices in Contemporary Security Operations.”
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Organisers said the programme is expected to expand specialist knowledge, improve operational readiness and strengthen the Army’s overall capability to respond to evolving IED threats across various theatres of operation.
The Nigerian Army noted that partnerships with international training organisations such as BMATT and GTAG continue to play an important role in enhancing professional military education and developing modern counter-IED techniques.
The initiative forms part of the Army’s broader strategy to improve force protection, support ongoing counter-insurgency and internal security operations, and strengthen national security through continuous capacity building for its personnel.