National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu has revealed that a significant number of illicit weapons used by terrorists and bandits in Nigeria were originally sourced from the Federal Government. This disclosure came during an Arms Destruction Exercise organized by the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW) at the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) in Abuja on Thursday.

Ribadu attributed the proliferation of these weapons to corrupt elements within security agencies, stressing the urgent need for measures to restore peace and stability in the country. He stated, “We must find a way to stop this if we want to recover our country and live in peace.”

The NSA condemned security personnel who compromise their roles by selling or concealing arms, emphasizing that such actions contribute to violence against their colleagues. He also highlighted the threat posed by external forces engaged in the illicit arms trade, noting that the spread of small arms and light weapons significantly worsens national security challenges, including insurgency and banditry.

Ribadu reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to supporting the NCCSALW in safeguarding all Nigerians, stating that the destruction of unserviceable, obsolete, and recovered arms reflects a dedication to a secure future. He added, “All illicit arms, not just unserviceable ones, should be destroyed completely. Any weapon obtained through illegal means is considered illegal.”

Johnson Kokumo, the Director-General of NCCSALW, noted that this arms destruction exercise was the third since the center’s establishment and the first under his leadership. He emphasized that the proliferation of small arms and light weapons remains a major threat to peace and security in Nigeria and the West African region.

The exercise aims to eliminate over 2,400 illicit weapons, including unserviceable, decommissioned, and recovered arms. Kokumo stated, “By permanently removing these arms from circulation, we mitigate the risk they pose to our communities and convey a clear message that Nigeria will not tolerate illegal trafficking and possession of small arms and light weapons.”

He also mentioned that the National Centre currently has custody of several recovered illicit small arms and light weapons that are still undergoing tracing, investigations, and legal processes, including those handed over by the Nigeria Customs Service. These weapons will be destroyed upon completion of the necessary proceedings in future destruction exercises.