NSCDC Cracks Down on Illegal Arms Proliferation in Nigeria

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has reaffirmed its commitment to combating the proliferation of small arms and light weapons in the country. FCT Commandant Dr. Olusola Odumosu made this statement during a meeting with the Zonal Director of the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons. Odumosu emphasized the Corps' professionalism in handling arms and weapons, while also acknowledging the porous nature of Nigeria's borders as a major contributor to the illegal spread of arms.

According to Odumosu, the proliferation of arms fuels various crimes, including vandalism, banditry, kidnapping, and robbery. He assured that the NSCDC will continue to train its personnel on arms handling, human rights, and best practices. The Commandant also lauded the Zonal Director for the sensitization visit and expressed the Corps' willingness to partner with the centre, particularly in intelligence gathering. This collaboration aims to stem the menace of illegal arms proliferation and ensure national security.

Dr. Odumosu posited that illegal arms in the hands of non-state actors pose a grave threat to national security, peace, and socio-economic development. He stressed the need for sustained synergy among security agencies, strict monitoring of border communities, and decisive action against illegal arms manufacturers. The NSCDC's commitment to stemming the proliferation of small arms and light weapons is in line with the vision of Commandant General Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi.

The Zonal Director North Central, National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons, Abdul Adamu Enenche, identified porous borders, international maritime borders, transhipment through illegal jetties, and local manufacturers as major areas responsible for the proliferation of small arms and light weapons. Enenche explained that the visit aimed to seek collaboration with the NSCDC to control the spread of small arms and light weapons.

Enenche also emphasized the need for arms-bearing agencies to ensure that all arms and weapons recovered from unauthorized individuals are sent to the centre for proper custody after preliminary investigation. He lauded Commandant Odumosu's dedication to security of lives and property and the successes he has recorded as the FCT Commandant. During the visit, Enenche presented an award of Excellence to the Commandant.

The NSCDC's efforts to combat arms proliferation are crucial in maintaining national security and preventing various crimes. The Corps' commitment to professionalism in arms handling and its collaboration with other agencies, such as the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons, are essential in stemming the menace of illegal arms. The award presented to Commandant Odumosu is a testament to his dedication to security and the successes achieved under his leadership.

The fight against arms proliferation requires a multi-faceted approach, involving sustained synergy among security agencies, strict monitoring of border communities, and decisive action against illegal arms manufacturers. The NSCDC, in collaboration with other agencies, will continue to work towards ensuring that Nigeria's borders are secure and that the proliferation of small arms and light weapons is controlled. This effort is essential in maintaining peace, national security, and socio-economic development in the country.

Key points

• NSCDC vows to stem illegal arms proliferation, citing threats to national security and socio-economic development