HALO Trust, US partner to provide ammunition handling and accounting training for Nigeria Police

The Nigeria Police Force Explosive Ordnance Disposal – Chemical Biological Radiological and Nuclear (NPF EOD-CBRN) unit has completed the training of 19 personnel on ammunition handling and accounting.

Held in Lagos from December 3 to 20, the training was organised by The HALO Trust and sponsored by the US Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs.

According to The HALO Trust’s country director for Nigeria Ganiyu Otunba, the training was part of a holistic NPF-HALO developed project aimed at supporting personnel capacity building, addressing equipment needs and enhancing the operational readiness of the NPF EOD-CBRN to mitigate explosive ordnance threats in Nigeria.

A second batch of 22 personnel will undergo the same training in January.

Commissioner of Police in charge of the EOD–CBRN Patrick Atayero, speaking on behalf of the Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, expressed gratitude to the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs and The Trust HALO for their support.

He pointed out that the training will further equip NPF EOD-CBRN personnel with the knowledge, skills, and best practices necessary to handle and account for ammunition and explosives safely and securely.

The course also focused on ensuring proper accounting and record-keeping, preventing theft and diversion, reducing the risk of unplanned explosions at munitions sites, and promoting international best practices.

The Nigeria Police Force appreciates the support provided by the United States government, which will have a profoundly positive impact on society.

CP Patrick Atayero emphasized the importance of responsible ammunition management in preventing the proliferation of illicit weapons and reducing the risk of unplanned explosions at munitions sites. He urged all stakeholders to collaborate with the Police in efforts to prevent the diversion, misuse and unauthorised handling of explosives and other hazardous materials.

The HALO Trust is the world’s largest humanitarian organisation engaged in the field of mine action and weapons and ammunition management.

It trained a total of 106 Nigeria security personnel in weapons and ammunition management in 2024.