National Security Adviser Identifies Small Arms Proliferation as Major Driver of Conflict in Nigeria

The National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has identified the proliferation of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) as a major threat to Nigeria’s national security, stating that it remains a key driver of violent conflict, crime, and terrorism within and beyond the country’s borders.

Mallam Ribadu made this known during the public destruction of 3,867 illicit, decommissioned, and unserviceable small arms and light weapons at the Muhammadu Buhari Cantonment, Giri, in Abuja on Thursday.

The exercise, the fourth in the series, was conducted by the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW), established in 2021 to curb the spread of illegal arms in Nigeria.

Represented by the Special Adviser on Governance and Subnational Liaison, Mr. Asishana Okauru, the NSA said Nigeria’s success in defeating terrorism lies in sustained government action and collective support from citizens, particularly in addressing arms proliferation.

He noted that the challenge of SALW control is complex and cannot be tackled by government alone, emphasizing the need for collaboration among international partners, government agencies, and civil society organisations.

Ribadu stated that Nigeria remains committed to confronting the threat posed by illicit arms and reaffirmed the government's resolve to strengthen national unity and deploy strategic actions to combat insecurity.

While referencing the establishment of NCCSALW as a step toward institutionalising the fight against SALW, Ribadu commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for demonstrating strong leadership and commitment to ending the illegal arms trade in Nigeria.

“The public destruction of illicit arms is a reminder of our collective duty to support the government and security agencies in the fight against terrorism, banditry, and other criminal activities threatening our peace and national development,” he said.

The NSA called on Nigerians to actively support national security efforts by providing timely and credible information to security agencies, urging citizens to trust the government to ensure law and order across the country.

He revealed that the Federal Government, through relevant ministries and agencies, is intensifying measures to tighten domestic arms controls and prevent SALW from falling into the wrong hands.

Ribadu expressed confidence in the capacity of NCCSALW to deliver on its mandate, stating that with sustained support, the Centre will significantly reduce the presence of illicit arms in Nigeria.