Nigerian Government Destroys 2,809 Illicit Arms in Abuja

On Thursday, the Nigerian Government destroyed 2,809 illicit, decommissioned, and unserviceable small arms and light weapons in Abuja, conducted by the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW). This action increased the total number of destroyed weapons to 19,000.

National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, represented by Dr Dennis Otuaro, Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, stated that the destruction reflects the government's commitment to transparency, accountability, and national security. Ribadu highlighted that terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, and communal clashes are fueled by the availability of illicit arms.

He noted that each destroyed weapon eliminates a potential threat. Ribadu also mentioned that the government, under President Bola Tinubu, is pursuing an intelligence-led national security strategy that includes inter-agency collaboration and enhanced border security.

He urged Nigerians to report illegal arms activities and called on traditional and religious leaders to promote peace and voluntary disarmament in their communities.