By: Kingsley Omonobi

The Federal Government is developing a biometric database at the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) to identify and apprehend individuals involved in the illegal production, distribution, and sale of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), landmines, and bombs to terrorists and criminal gangs.

Disclosing this on Wednesday in Abuja, the National Coordinator of the National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC), Major General Adamu Laka, stated: “This biometric database will be used to identify those who specialize in manufacturing IEDs. We are working closely with the US and British governments, along with other security and intelligence agencies, to achieve this.”

Speaking at the Counter-IED Symposium, Laka explained that the major challenge in combating IED threats is the easy availability of materials used in their production.

“Most of the materials used to manufacture these explosives are readily available in the open market. For instance, we have restricted the movement of Urea-based fertilizer to the Northeast because its nitrate content is extracted for IED production.”

However, insurgents have adapted by sourcing alternative materials from markets, leading to continued threats. Laka assured that public awareness campaigns will continue alongside security measures.

Laka emphasized that strict legal measures are in place for those involved in the illicit supply of explosive materials:

“Yes, there are adequate punishments. The judiciary will handle the prosecution. Some individuals have already been identified and are awaiting trial. We will follow the rule of law because Nigeria is a signatory to international human rights best practices.”

The symposium also highlighted ongoing international support. According to Laka:

“The British High Commission has established a Counter-IED Centre in Maiduguri, while the US government has been training our troops for the past four years. This has significantly improved their ability to detect, prevent, and respond to IED incidents.”

Samples collected from IED attack sites are analyzed in the NCTC laboratory, helping security forces identify materials used and track their sources to prevent future attacks.

In his remarks, Commissioner of Police (Explosives Ordinance Department), CP Patrick Atayero, underscored the national security threat posed by IEDs.

Represented by DCP Akpan, he said: “IEDs have become the weapon of choice for terrorists, insurgents, and criminals, causing devastating harm to civilians, security personnel, and critical infrastructure.”

Atayero emphasized the need for enhanced collaboration, intelligence sharing, and coordinated response strategies to counter the evolving IED threat.

“The discussions and presentations from this symposium will offer valuable insights into the latest tactics and strategies for detecting, disrupting, and defeating IED threats.”

Calling for a moment of silence, Atayero paid tribute to fallen security personnel and civilians who lost their lives due to IED attacks.

“We honor the sacrifices of our uniformed heroes and innocent victims. Their memories strengthen our resolve to protect our communities from further harm.”

The symposium reinforced Nigeria’s commitment to fighting terrorism, ensuring that the production and distribution of IEDs are tracked, restricted, and severely punished under the law.