The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has restated its preparedness to prevent and manage nuclear disaster that may arise in the country.

This is contained in a statement issued by NSCDC Public Relations Officer, Mr Emmanuel Okeh, and made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Saturday.

Okeh said that earnest training of officers of the Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Unit, a specialised unit of the NSCDC, had since begun.

“The specialised unit, established to tackle emergency situations related to chemical poisoning and nuclear explosions, has also carried out a simulation exercise as part of its operational strategy,” he said.

He explained that the simulation exercise was carried out in collaboration with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the Nigeria Nuclear and Regulatory Agency (NNRA) in line with international best practice.

He said that the theme of simulation, “Transportation accident involving a radioactive source,” was meant to prepare officials, especially as the country geared toward the establishment of nuclear energy.

“The Commandant-General of the Corps, Dr Ade Abolurin, has also stressed the importance of the unit, and called for awareness on the destructive tendencies of nuclear energy if not well managed.

“We are also doing a lot to sensitise the public on the different dimensions of crime, which now involves the use of chemicals, bombs and other dangerous substances,” he said.

He quoted, Mr Pablo Jerez of the IAEA, as pledging the support of the agency and other stakeholders to the NSCDC, especially as regards provision of operational tools and equipment.

“We are also ready to partner with relevant stakeholders so as to be able to prevent and tackle any form of chemical, radiological and nuclear disaster in the country,” he said. (NAN)

•Photo shows Abolurin