The Federal Government is establishing a biometric database at the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) to track and apprehend individuals involved in the illegal production, distribution, and sale of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), landmines, and bombs used by terrorists and criminal gangs.
Announcing this in Abuja on Wednesday, Major General Adamu Laka, National Coordinator of the National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC), stated:
“This biometric database will help identify those specializing in IED manufacturing. We are collaborating with the US and British governments, as well as other security and intelligence agencies, to achieve this goal.”
Speaking at the Counter-IED Symposium, Laka noted that a key challenge in combating IED threats is the easy accessibility of materials used in their production.
“Many of these materials are widely available in the open market. For example, we have restricted the movement of Urea-based fertilizer to the Northeast because its nitrate content is commonly extracted for IED production.”
Despite such restrictions, insurgents continue to adapt by sourcing alternative materials. Laka assured that public awareness campaigns will be reinforced alongside security measures to curb these threats.
He also stressed that strict legal actions are in place for those engaged in the illegal supply of explosive materials:
“Yes, there are appropriate punishments. The judiciary will handle prosecutions, and some individuals have already been identified and are awaiting trial. Nigeria will uphold the rule of law as a signatory to international human rights best practices.”
International Support in Counter-IED Efforts
The symposium also underscored the ongoing support from international partners. Laka revealed:
“The British High Commission has set up a Counter-IED Centre in Maiduguri, while the US government has been training our troops for the past four years. This has significantly enhanced their ability to detect, prevent, and respond to IED threats.”
Samples from IED attack sites are analyzed in the NCTC laboratory to trace materials and their sources, aiding security agencies in preventing future attacks.
IEDs as a Growing National Security Threat
Commissioner of Police (Explosives Ordinance Department), CP Patrick Atayero, represented by DCP Akpan, highlighted the increasing use of IEDs by terrorists and criminals.
“IEDs have become the weapon of choice for terrorists, insurgents, and criminals, causing devastating harm to civilians, security personnel, and critical infrastructure.”
He emphasized the need for stronger collaboration, intelligence sharing, and coordinated response strategies to counter the evolving IED threat.
“The discussions and presentations at this symposium will provide valuable insights into the latest tactics and strategies for detecting, disrupting, and neutralizing IED threats.”
Atayero also paid tribute to security personnel and civilians who lost their lives due to IED attacks, calling for a moment of silence in their honor.
“We remember the sacrifices of our uniformed heroes and innocent victims. Their memories strengthen our resolve to protect our communities from further harm.”
The symposium reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to tackling terrorism by tracking, restricting, and punishing those involved in the illicit production and distribution of IEDs.
