In Abuja, the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSLAW) conducted its fifth arms destruction operation, resulting in the annihilation of over 2,800 illegal firearms on Friday.
This initiative represents a vital advancement in the Nigerian government's ongoing campaign against violent crime, terrorism, and general insecurity within the nation.
At the event, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu highlighted the widespread issue of small arms and light weapons proliferation as a significant risk to Nigeria's national security.
Ribadu, who was represented by Maj.-Gen. Hillary Mabeokwu, Director of Defence Affairs in the Office of the National Security Adviser, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing the complexities involved in regulating the flow of illicit firearms.
He pointed out that the NCCSLAW, founded in 2021, acts as a crucial instrument in the strategy to mitigate arms proliferation.
"The centre creates a systematic approach to tackle national security challenges, aligning with international agreements like Article 24 of the ECOWAS Convention on Small Arms and Light Weapons," Ribadu remarked.
He also praised the enactment of the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons Act 2024, endorsed by Bola Tinubu, calling it a pivotal milestone towards establishing a society free of illegal arms.
“This legislation lays the groundwork for the centre to fulfill its mission more effectively," he added.
Johnson Kokumo, the Director-General of NCCSLAW, expressed that the destruction exercise underscores the agency's dedication to combatting the distribution of illegal weapons and fostering regional stability.
Kokumo disclosed that over 16,000 illicit, discarded, and obsolete weapons have been disposed of since the establishment of the agency, including 2,800 firearms from the recent operation.
The firearms, which included locally made guns, were retrieved from police units across the country and other security forces.
He maintained that the exercise follows international standards as set by the ECOWAS Convention and the United Nations Programme of Action aimed at preventing and addressing the illegal trade in small arms.
Furthermore, Kokumo urged citizens to actively support law enforcement agencies by sharing information, emphasizing that public collaboration is essential for maintaining peace and security throughout Nigeria.
The destruction event was attended by high-ranking security officials, representatives from military services, leaders of government agencies, ECOWAS delegates, civil society members, corps members, and the media.
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