Nokai Origin, Abuja
The National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW) has destroyed 1,316 illicit arms in Abuja, reinforcing Nigeria’s role as a continental leader in curbing arms proliferation and advancing regional peace.
The destruction exercise, carried out at Muhammadu Buhari Cantonment, Giri, under the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), marked another milestone in Nigeria’s campaign against arms trafficking and violent crime.
With this operation, the NCCSALW has now eliminated more than 13,230 obsolete, unserviceable and illicit weapons in its four years of existence, demonstrating Nigeria’s commitment to both national and international security obligations.
The National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, described the spread of small arms as a major driver of instability, noting that Nigeria is determined to confront the challenge decisively.
“The proliferation of small arms and light weapons constitutes a huge threat to our national security. It fuels violent conflict, crime and terrorism within and beyond our borders
“This destruction exercise is a clarion call to reclaim our security space and restore our nation to the path of peace, stability and development,” Ribadu added.
He highlighted recent reforms, including the signing of the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons Act 2024 and the strengthening of NCCSALW, as critical steps in tackling the menace. He also urged citizens to play an active role in safeguarding the country’s stability.
“We, as patriotic citizens, must stand up to be counted at this time by supporting security agencies, and by uniting to protect peace, political stability and our democracy,” he stressed.
Director-General of NCCSALW, retired Deputy Inspector General of Police Johnson Kokumo, said the exercise underscored Nigeria’s seriousness in confronting arms proliferation and meeting its regional and global security responsibilities.
“These weapons were recovered from terrorists, bandits and other violent groups. Their destruction is a clear message that Nigeria will not allow its security to be undermined by the illegal arms trade,” Kokumo stated.
He explained that since its establishment in 2021, the Centre has expanded its institutional capacity, set up zonal offices nationwide and worked closely with security agencies and international partners to stem arms trafficking.
Weapons destroyed included those seized from violent groups and smugglers, with some recovered arms—such as consignments intercepted at Onne Port and Lagos Airport—still undergoing legal processes before future destruction.
The exercise involved initial burning followed by smelting of metal remnants, ensuring total decommissioning.
Attended by military chiefs, police leaders, security heads and international partners, the event was framed not only as a technical operation but also as a strong symbol of Nigeria’s leadership in advancing peace, stability and development across Africa.
PIAK