The Network of Civil Society Organizations in Borno State (NECSOB) has described the Wednesday fire incident at Giwa Barracks in Maiduguri that led to multiple explosions as a wake up call to all stakeholders for sustained peace, safety and development.
The organisation in a statement in Maiduguri on Saturday, signed by its Executive Director, Amb. Bulama Abiso, expressed deep concern and sympathy over the unfortunate incident.
“We stand in solidarity with the Nigerian Army, the Borno State Government, and the affected residents of communities around the barracks who were exposed to fear and anxiety due to the multiple explosions that accompanied the incident.
“We commend the swift response and coordination by the Nigerian Army Fire Service, the Federal Fire Service, and the Borno State Fire Service, whose professional efforts helped contain the situation and prevent further damage.
“While preliminary reports indicate that the intense seasonal heat in Maiduguri may have played a role in the outbreak, we respectfully call on relevant authorities to launch a thorough and independent investigation to ascertain the root cause and draw lessons that can avert future occurrences. Safety measures around military installations must be strengthened to protect both personnel and civilians.
“This incident also underscores the need to revisit and accelerate conversations around the strategic relocation of armouries and explosive materials from densely populated areas. The presence of such facilities within civilian settlements presents a persistent risk to life, property, and the emotional well-being of the populace.
“We also take this opportunity to emphasize that peace and security are foundational to sustainable development particularly in the North-East where conflict has long disrupted education, agriculture, and socio-economic recovery.
“For farmers to return to their lands, markets to thrive, and displaced families to rebuild, a stable and secure environment is non-negotiable. Any disruption in public safety, no matter how unintended, has the potential to reverse hard-earned progress in these critical sectors.
“We commend the tireless efforts of our security agencies who continue to place their lives on the line to maintain order and safeguard communities. Their swift response to the Giwa Barracks incident is a testament to their commitment. However, we also urge them to remain vigilant and proactive, especially in light of recent reports of attempted attacks and emerging security threats across the region.
“Finally, we call on residents and community leaders to work hand-in-hand with security agencies. Effective community-security collaboration can enhance intelligence gathering, trust-building, and ultimately, the prevention of tragedies and threats before they escalate,” the statement added
It reiterated the commitment of NECSOB to continue to promote peace, civic responsibility and sustainable development in Borno, adding that it’s ever ready to collaborate with all stakeholders including government, security institutions, and communities for a safer and more resilient Borno state.
