The Federal Government on Thursday destroyed 1,316 assorted firearms in Abuja as part of renewed efforts to tackle the spread of small arms and light weapons across the country.
The National Centre carried out the operation for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW) and marks the fifth destruction exercise since the centre’s establishment.
Speaking at the event, the Director-General of NCCSALW, Johnson Kokumo, described the exercise as a vital security measure to ensure confiscated and obsolete weapons do not re-enter circulation.
He explained that the destruction reflects the government’s transparency and accountability, assuring Nigerians that the recovered weapons have been permanently neutralised.
Kokumo disclosed that more than 13,230 illegal arms have been destroyed nationwide over the last four years, adding that the initiative is consistent with Nigeria’s obligations under the ECOWAS Convention on Small Arms and Light Weapons and the United Nations Programme of Action on Small Arms.
According to him, the campaign reinforces Nigeria’s determination to meet global security standards while reducing the flow of weapons that often fuel violence and insecurity.
He noted that the nationwide disarmament drive is also a demonstration of government’s commitment to protect the lives and property of its citizens.
