Successful Recovery of 93 Dangerous Unexploded Bombs in ‘Exercise Clean Sweep’ at Ikeja Military Cantonment, Lagos
In a remarkable operation aimed at securing the Ikeja Military Cantonment in Lagos, dubbed ‘Exercise Clean Sweep,’ 93 unexploded ordnance (bombs) have been safely recovered.
The military initiated this essential effort to disinfect the epicenter of the 2002 bomb blast that rocked the cantonment, ensuring the safety and security of both the inhabitants and the environment.
The Director at the Directorate of Explosives Search and Disposal, Nigeria Army Engineers, and Coordinator of ‘Exercise Clean Sweep,’ Colonel Abdulrazaq Kazeem, announced this significant development during his first update on the exercise.
This operation is designed to address the persistent threat of unexploded ordnance (UXOs) in the area despite previous clearance and disposal exercises.
Colonel Kazeem disclosed that the recovered bombs varied in calibers and descriptions, emphasizing the importance of safely managing these hazardous materials.
To guarantee the safety of all involved, Colonel Kazeem explained, “The moment we reach the maximum limits of explosives within our holding area, such ordnances will be moved to the range. If we get to the explosive limits today, I will move to the range today. We would not exceed a kilogram above the explosive limits because it is measured in kilogram. At 93, we have not yet reached the limits.”
Furthermore, safety measures have been diligently put in place to ensure the well-being of personnel involved in this challenging endeavor.
Lieutenant Colonel Oluseyi Oladapo Bamikole, the Safety Officer, highlighted that adequate equipment, demarcations, and trained personnel have been made available to identify UXOs before recovery, emphasizing the meticulous approach taken to ensure the safety of all those participating in this critical mission.
The recovery of these unexploded bombs marks a substantial achievement in the ongoing ‘Exercise Clean Sweep,’ further securing the Ikeja Military Cantonment and its surroundings.
The operation continues to be closely monitored and executed with the highest safety standards in mind, promising a safer environment for all.
