A coalition of civil society organisations under the aegis of the Network of Civil Society Organisations, Borno State, has called for a thorough and independent investigation into the recent ammunition explosions at Giwa Barracks in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital.
The call was made in a statement issued by the executive director of the Network, Ambassador Bulama Abiso, following the fire outbreak that rocked the barracks armoury on the night of Wednesday, April 30, 2025.
The incident, which caused widespread panic among residents of surrounding communities, triggered multiple explosions and raised fresh concerns about the safety of locating military armouries within densely populated areas.
“The Network of Civil Society Organisations, Borno State, expresses its deep concern and heartfelt sympathy following the unfortunate fire outbreak at the Giwa Barracks Armoury,”; the statement read.
“We stand in solidarity with the Nigerian Army, the Borno State Government, and the affected residents who were exposed to fear and anxiety.”;
While preliminary reports suggest the intense seasonal heat in Maiduguri may have contributed to the incident, Abiso emphasised the need for a full-scale investigation to determine the root cause and prevent similar occurrences in future.
He further urged the government and military authorities to revisit ongoing discussions about the strategic relocation of armouries and explosive materials away from civilian settlements. “The presence of such facilities in residential areas poses a persistent risk to life, property, and the emotional well-being of the populace,”; he said.
The Network commended the swift response of the Nigerian Army Fire Service, the Federal Fire Service, and the Borno State Fire Service, noting that their coordinated efforts helped contain the situation and mitigate further damage.
Abiso also stressed the need to strengthen safety protocols around military installations across the country to safeguard both military personnel better and the civilian population.
