Security Note from Nigeria Network of NGOs.

Following the issuance of security alerts by the Governments of the United States and United Kingdom and the subsequent withdrawals of their citizens from Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, we encourage our members across the country and in Abuja specifically to please stay alert and vigilant to any perceived threat to their lives and properties.

While the Inspector General of Police, IGP Usman Baba has assured Nigerians that there is no imminent threat in Abuja or anywhere else in the country, we enjoin members to minimize travels, physical gatherings- conferences and workshops, or campaigns where possible at this time until all indications of impending chaos subside.

We urge members to develop and execute security plans for their organisations including large gatherings. In case there are donor supported events you have planned in Abuja, please reach out to your donors asking for a delay in implementation or change in venue to other parts of the country. Remember this will have cost implications that may need to be negotiated with your grant officer. Organisations based in Abuja may also consider a work from home policy in order to guarantee the safety of their staff.

We encourage CSOs to remain cautious and vigilant in public places especially where crowds gather, including conferences, workshops, places of worship, markets, shopping malls, hotels, bars, restaurants, football viewing centres, displacement camps, transport terminals (including train networks), government buildings, security, and educational institutions (schools, further education colleges and universities are all regular targets), and international organisations.

We encourage our members and their staff, especially within the FCT, to stay alert and report any suspicious or abnormal occurrence and persons to the Police through the following emergency lines as provided by authorities: 08032003913, 08061581938, 07057337653, and 08028940883

Tips for Navigating a Terrorist Attack

These tips apply whether you’re in a public or private space.

 Before an Incident

• Be vigilant. Terrorist attacks usually happen in public places. Keep a watch for suspicious behaviour, vehicles, or packages.
• If you have any fears or suspicions, tell the police.
• When you’re in buildings and on public transport, make sure you know where the emergency exits are.

 During an Incident

• We know it is hard to do but try your best to remain calm and patient but stay as alert as you can. Find the safest way to leave the area. Move as quickly and calmly as you can. If you cannot find an exit, find a good hiding spot, and stay there till you are sure it is safe to leave.
• If there’s an explosion outside a building or you hear gunshots, stay inside or as far from the explosion area as you can. Keep away from windows, lifts, and outside doors in case there’s another bomb nearby.
• If there’s a fire, stay low to the floor and exit as quickly as possible. Cover your nose and mouth with a wet cloth if you can. If a door is hot to the touch, don’t open it.
• If you saw the explosion or any suspicious behaviour, tell the police.
• If the event occured near/close to you, carefully but thoroughly check your body for injuries.

 After an Incident

• Help others with first aid if it’s safe to do so. Tell the police if you saw anything that might be useful.

Source: British Red Cross

Do not hesitate to reach out to us at {email] and [phone number] in case of an emergency.

Sincerely,

The NNNGO Security in the Field Team