Nigeria Destroys Over 1,300 Firearms Recovered From Terrorists, Bandits, Others
Nigeria Destroys Over 1,300 Firearms Recovered From Terrorists, Bandits, Others
Since its inception four years ago, the NCCSALW has eliminated over 13,230 obsolete, unserviceable, and illicit weapons, underscoring Nigeria’s commitment to both national and international security obligations.
The National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW) has destroyed 1,316 illegal firearms in Abuja, reaffirming Nigeria’s position as a continental leader in combating arms proliferation and promoting regional peace.
The exercise, conducted at Muhammadu Buhari Cantonment, Giri, under the supervision of the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), represents another key milestone in Nigeria’s fight against arms trafficking and violent crime, the Voice of Nigeria reports.
Since its inception four years ago, the NCCSALW has eliminated over 13,230 obsolete, unserviceable, and illicit weapons, underscoring Nigeria’s commitment to both national and international security obligations.
National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu emphasized that the spread of small arms remains a major driver of instability and affirmed Nigeria’s determination to tackle 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 pointed to recent reforms—such as the enactment of the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons Act 2024 and the strengthening of NCCSALW—as crucial measures in addressing the arms proliferation menace. He also called on citizens to actively participate in preserving the nation’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.
The Director-General of NCCSALW, retired Deputy Inspector General of Police Johnson Kokumo, stated that the exercise highlighted Nigeria’s commitment to tackling arms proliferation and fulfilling its regional and international security obligations.
“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 noted that since its inception in 2021, the Centre has strengthened its institutional capacity, established zonal offices across the country, and collaborated closely with security agencies and international partners to curb arms trafficking.
The destroyed weapons 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 proceedings prior to eventual destruction.
The operation involved an initial burning followed by smelting of metal remnants, ensuring complete decommissioning.
Attended by military chiefs, police officials, security leaders, and international partners, the exercise was portrayed not only as a technical operation but also as a powerful demonstration of Nigeria’s leadership in promoting peace, stability, and development across Africa.
