President Bola Tinubu has officially endorsed legislation to create the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms, a move aimed at enhancing Nigeria’s efforts to combat the spread of illegal firearms.
The announcement was made by National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu during a workshop focused on integrating gender considerations into strategies for preventing small arms proliferation, held in Abuja. Represented by Ibrahim Babani, the Director of External Affairs at the Office of the National Security Adviser, Ribadu noted that this new law will empower the centre to implement more effective measures against illegal weapons.
He highlighted that the president’s approval marks a significant milestone in the government’s commitment to halting the flow of illicit arms. The legislative framework will strengthen the centre’s capabilities, allowing for more coordinated and impactful responses to this pressing issue.
Additionally, Ribadu underscored the importance of incorporating gender perspectives in efforts to prevent the spread of small arms and light weapons. The workshop drew on international standards, particularly United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325, which stresses the necessity of protecting women from conflict-related violence and ensuring their active participation in peacebuilding and security processes.
Ribadu praised the centre for its ongoing initiatives aimed at addressing the challenges posed by small arms proliferation in Nigeria.
