FG urges CSOs to lead fight against small arms proliferation in North-East
Federal Government Calls on Civil Society to Combat Illicit Arms in North-East
MAIDUGURI, Nigeria — The Federal Government has urged civil society organizations (CSOs) to take a proactive role in addressing the proliferation of illegal small arms and light weapons in the North-East region. This appeal was made by Major General Adamu Abubakar (retd), North-East Zonal Director of the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons, during the inauguration of a new executive committee for the Network of Civil Society Organisations on Wednesday.
Abubakar congratulated the newly elected members and emphasized the pressing need for CSOs to enhance advocacy and public awareness regarding the dangers posed by the illicit trade in small arms.
“The uncontrolled circulation of these weapons is a significant driver of insecurity, violence, criminality, and communal conflict in various parts of the country,” he stated. He added that communities benefit from greater peace, stability, and socio-economic development when firearms are kept out of the hands of non-state actors.
The zonal director reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to collaborating with civil society organizations, community leaders, and other stakeholders to tackle the issue of illicit arms proliferation across Nigeria. He encouraged all individuals to return to their communities and work toward empowering residents as responsible citizens.
