- Nigeria is deeply committed to countering the threat posed by the illegal circulation of SALW within and around its borders
The Federal Government urged regional efforts to combat the proliferation of small arms and Improvised Explosive Device (IED) threats, which together pose a pressing security challenge for the ECOWAS region.
DIG Johnson Kokumo (Rtd), Director General of the National Centre for Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW), advocated for a regional approach while opening the ECOWAS Coordination Meeting of National Commissions on Small Arms with the theme “Countering Improvised Explosive Devices, Promoting Administration and Management of Small Arms and Light Weapons, and Regulating Craft Weapons Production in the ECOWAS Region” in Abuja.
He stated that Nigeria, a member of ECOWAS, is deeply committed to countering the threat posed by the illegal circulation of SALW within and around its borders.
He pointed out that Nigeria has consistently demonstrated its resolve to continue to counter the proliferation of small arms and light weapons.
According to him, “The challenge of small arms proliferation and IED threats transcend our borders and therefore demand a robust and unified response.
“The FGN applauds ECOWAS for its relentless dedication to regional peace and security and is ever willing and ready to work hand-in-hand with our brothers and sisters in the region”.
He stated that the meeting would provide a unique platform to further consolidate collective strategies, align our goals, and ensure that our national actions contribute meaningfully to regional stability and urged participants to engage in open and solution-focused discussions.
According to him, “Together, through concerted action and commitment, we can make our communities safer, our borders more secure and our region a beacon of peace and resilience.”