By SADIQ ABUBAKAR, Maiduguri –
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) organized a one-day training workshop in Maiduguri to educate journalists and combatants about the risks and effects of unexploded and abandoned explosive devices.
The training, held at the ICRC Office in GRA Maiduguri, aimed to create awareness and enlighten participants on the dangers posed by explosive remnants of war (ERW) and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) during and after conflict.
The ICRC’s Weapon Contamination Field Manager, Akila Bulus, explained the different categories of ERW and IEDs commonly found in conflict zones.
He revealed that Nigeria has recorded 305 incidents, with 267 cases coming from the northeastern states of Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe, as of 2024.
These incidents have resulted in numerous casualties among innocent civilians, internally displaced persons, and individuals of all ages and genders.
Bulus also shared safety measures and behaviors for journalists to adopt while working in conflict zones to reduce their exposure to explosive dangers.
“‘It is very important to be cautious in your environment, be vigilant by staying on well used roads and do not wander into unknown areas,. Despite physical threats posed by weapon contamination there is also risk of socio-economic and psychosocial effects or damage to the explosive victims, including both the women and children in the conflict areas,” he said.
The capacity-building training featured an interactive and practical brainstorming session, where journalists discussed strategies to protect themselves and others from weapon contamination, prevent further contamination, and raise awareness about the risks among local communities.
The session emphasized the importance of collaboration between the ICRC, media organizations, and local stakeholders to promote a coordinated response. The event also included group photographs, Microsoft PowerPoint presentations, and exhibitions showcasing the impact of weapon contamination.
