From Timothy Olanrewaju, Maiduguri
A non-governmental organisation for the protection of communities in conflict-affected areas, the Centre for Civilians in Conflict (CIVIC), have stressed the need to step up the safety and protection of the civilian population in Borno against unexploded explosives.
CIVIC Programme Tean Lead, Saratu Pindar while speaking at a four-day awareness training on safety with security operatives in Monguno, Borno’s town liberated from Boko Haram, said protection of civilians ought to be a priority in the conflict zone.
“This programme is to support all stakeholders in the security circle to make protection and safety of civilians against the threat of unexploded remnants of ordinances remain a top priority in Monguno and Konduga local government area of Borno State,” she said.
She explained that the training focuses on “identification and reporting of unexploded ordinance sightings,” fire safety and accident prevention as well as other protection threats and risks.
“We are committed to empowering communities with the right knowledge and tools to mitigate these risks effectively,” she added.
The programme was organized in collaboration with another partner; Community Protection Committee (CPC).
Some communities in Borno have been experiencing explosions from remnants of mines abandoned or buried by Boko Haram at the peak of insurgency.