NSA proposes sectorised strategy in addressing terrorism, chemical threats

The Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) is proposing a sectorised strategy as part of its crisis management efforts, particularly to address terrorism and chemical and biological threats in the country.

During the simulation exercise titled “Rapid Response 1,” held at the Idu Train Station in Abuja, Rear Admiral Robert Obeya, Director of the Presidential Crisis Communication Command and Control Centre (PC4), praised the progress made by various Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).

Admiral Obeya noted significant improvements in response times, rating the agencies’ performance as “seven out of 10.”

He pointed out that initial delays were primarily due to the long distances security teams must travel to reach crisis zones.

“If we had a sectorized approach, we would have troops stationed nearby to respond immediately, with additional units providing backup,” he explained.

He said that no single agency can tackle terrorism alone, highlighting the successful collaboration achieved among the Police, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), and the Armed Forces.

“This synergy is what we envisioned,” he stated.

The exercise aimed to enhance crisis response in confined spaces and tested the agencies’ ability to handle health emergencies, hostage situations, terrorism, and chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) threats.

It underscored the importance of inter-agency collaboration, a key principle outlined in the National Crisis Management Doctrine introduced in 2016.

Mrs. Zubaida Umar, Director General of NEMA, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to prompt responses.
“Today’s exercise showcased our capability in handling evacuation and mass casualty management. Whether in biochemical disasters or banditry, NEMA plays a crucial role in providing first aid and evacuation,” she said.