NSA Ribadu says Nigeria’s fight against terrorism hinges on controlling illicit arms.
The National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, says Nigeria can overcome terrorism by curbing the proliferation of illicit small arms and light weapons (SALW) through coordinated efforts. Speaking during the public destruction of seized arms by the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW) in Abuja, Ribadu, represented by Asishana Okauru, said, “We are resolved to galvanise our strengths and unity as a nation to confront these monstrous challenges, and I am optimistic that we shall surmount them.’’
He noted that uncontrolled SALW fuels terrorism, crimes, and violent conflicts, threatening national and regional security. Ribadu praised the signing of the Small Arms and Light Weapons Act 2024 and highlighted the NCCSALW’s role in tackling arms smuggling since its 2021 creation.
He urged citizens to support the government by reporting suspicious activities, adding, “We must trust the government to bring the state’s authority to bear.” The destroyed weapons mark the fourth such exercise by the centre since its inception.