FG Destroys Illicit Arms totaling over 13,000 to boost national security and fulfill international arms control treaties, says NCCSALW boss Kokumo

FG Destroys Illicit Arms in a sweeping arms destruction campaign that has seen more than 13,230 illegal and obsolete weapons eliminated since 2021, the Federal Government revealed on Thursday.

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At a high-profile event held at the Muhammadu Buhari Cantonment in Giri, Abuja, the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW) announced the destruction of 1,316 additional firearms, bringing the total to over 13,000 arms destroyed in four years.

The Director-General of the centre, retired DIG Johnson Kokumo, described the exercise as a powerful step toward disarming crime networks and reinforcing Nigeria’s internal security.

“This is not just about burning weapons,” Kokumo stated.

“It’s about transparency, accountability, and a firm commitment to ensuring these arms never re-enter circulation.”

Kokumo emphasized that the initiative aligns with Article 17 of the ECOWAS Convention on Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) and the UN Programme of Action on illicit weapons.

He noted that the NCCSALW is committed to consistent, transparent arms destruction efforts as a national and international duty.

The destroyed arms include those seized during counter-terrorism and anti-banditry operations, obsolete military-grade firearms, and weapons surrendered by law enforcement bodies.

Highlighting regional cooperation, Kokumo revealed ongoing bilateral engagements with Chad and Cameroon to tackle cross-border arms trafficking, a major contributor to insecurity in Nigeria and the broader West African sub-region.

“We’re already seeing results from these collaborations,” he affirmed, noting growing intelligence sharing and coordinated operations.

Beyond kinetic efforts, the FG’s approach involves systematic tracking, disarmament, and disposal—ensuring these weapons do not return to the streets.

The NCCSALW’s operations are part of a broader peace and security strategy that continues to gain traction.

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As the centre sustains this powerful initiative, stakeholders are urging continuous public support and vigilance in addressing the proliferation of small arms, a major driver of violent crime in the region.