Rear Admiral S.A Mohammed (Rtd), the North East Zonal Coordinator, National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW), says that the Federal Government was working tirelessly to curb the proliferation and use of illicit small arms and light weapons among youth and students in the country.
Mohammed stated this in Jalingo, Taraba State while presenting a paper during the maiden inauguration of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Zone E executives.
According to him, the act is a critical issue just as he observed that the proliferation of these weapons could exacerbate violence and instability especially, in the North-East sub region.
Speaking further at the event which brought together various youths organizations, including the National Youths Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Mohammed explained that the NCCSALW, had been mandated with the responsibility of achieving the feat.
“The NCCSALW was established in 2021 to address the proliferation of small arms and light weapons in Nigeria.
“The centre's mandate includes coordinating efforts to control the spread of these weapons, providing a framework for their regulation, and preventing their illicit trade.
“The centre's efforts in the North East zone have contributed significantly to the region's recovery from insurgency.
“By engaging stakeholders, including youths and students, the centre has promoted peace and stability in the region.
The NCCSALW North East Zonal Centre has made significant contributions to promoting peace and stability in the region and its efforts have helped to reduce violence and instability, and have promoted economic development and growth,” he added.
He also highlighted the importance of curbing the use of illicit small arms and light weapons among youths and students, which he said, would lead to a more peaceful and prosperous environment.
Responding, the newly elected NANS Zone-E executives pledged to support the fight against illicit arms in their institutions and society emphasizing the need for continued collaboration with the NCCSALW and appreciated the centre's support for their initiatives.
Also, Mr. Umar Afkawa, the newly sworn-in Coordinator of NANS in the North-East, outlined his vision to improve welfare services for students in the zone and committed to support the fight against illicit arms among students.
“The NCCSALW's peace initiative in the North East zone is a significant contribution to the ongoing efforts to promote peace and stability in the region. The centre's dedication to this cause is truly commendable.
“The centre's success in reducing the proliferation of small arms and light weapons in the North East zone is a testament to its effectiveness. The recovery of illicit weapons and the reintegration of former insurgents into their communities are notable achievements.
“The NCCSALW's engagement with youths and students is particularly important, as these groups are critical to the region's future development,” he acknowledged.
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