President Bola Tinubu has approved a new legislation establishing the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons, as revealed by the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, at a workshop focused on Gender Mainstreaming in Preventing the Proliferation of Small Arms and Light Weapons in Nigeria and West Africa.
During the event held in Abuja on Tuesday, the NSA emphasized that the president’s endorsement of the bill plays a vital role in the current administration’s strategy to combat the circulation of illicit arms within Nigeria and the West African region.
Ibrahim Babani, the Director of External Affairs at the Office of the National Security Adviser, representing Ribadu, mentioned that the legislation will enhance the center’s authority for necessary measures.
He stated, “Moreover, the ECOWAS Convention on Small Arms and Light Weapons underscores the collective responsibility of our region in curbing the spread of these dangerous weapons.”
He highlighted that the spread of arms and weaponry throughout the region significantly impacts women and children in conflict zones.
Additionally, he restated the government’s dedication to guaranteeing the safety of individuals throughout the region.