US donates $2 million worth of radiation detection equipment to Nigeria

The U.S. Department of Energy/National Nuclear Security Administration has supplied $2million worth of equipment to Nigeria to help strengthen Nigeria’s counter-nuclear smuggling capacity.

This was revealed in a press statement on Friday by the public affairs section of the U.S consulate general.

The equipment was donated through the U.S Office of Nuclear Smuggling Detection and Deterrence (NSDD), and it includes five new mobile radiation detection systems valued at over $2 million.

Jon Dvorak, the U.S. Consulate Assistant Regional Security Officer in his remark noted that the equipment donation was an important step in advancing the robust US-Nigeria security cooperation.

Mr Dvorak said the equipment transfer and training will enhance the police’s ability to interdict the smuggling of nuclear and radioactive material into and within Nigeria.

“Nigeria remains one of the United States’ key partners in combating the smuggling of illicit nuclear and radioactive material.

“Nigeria stands tall not only in Africa, but globally, in its commitment to prevent the trafficking and use of materials that pose a threat to health and safety,” Mr Dvorak said.

He reiterated the commitment of the US government to expand its partnership with other Nigerian security services to directly support counter-nuclear smuggling operations and modernized training capabilities.

CP Zannah Shettima, the Commissioner of Police in charge of Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (EOD-CBRN) Command received the donation on behalf of the Nigeria Police Force.