By Sumaila Ogbaje
The National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, says effective arms control requires strong legal framework, enduring partnerships, continuous training, resource allocation and shared sense of responsibility.
Ribadu said this at a workshop on “Review of the Firearms Act of 1959”, organised by the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW), on Tuesday in Abuja.
He was represented by the Director, Law Enforcement and Liaison, Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), Rex Dundu, an Assistant Inspector-General of Police.
The NSA commended the centre for dedication toward curbing the menace of illicit arms, saying it aligned with the collective vision of securing the nation.
He said “as we re-examine a piece of legislation enacted over half a century ago, we must ensure that our legal frameworks remain not just relevant, but robust enough to confront the rapidly changing dynamics of illicit arms law, organised crime, terrorism and other transnational threats.
“The National Firearms Act of 1959 served its purpose in an era with different security challenges but today, the situation is far more complex.
“Non-state actors, armed groups and criminal syndicates have adopted their methods, leveraging rural scholars, technological advancement and sophisticated smuggling routes to perpetrate instability.
“In turn, the dreaded availability of illicit arms exacerbates conflicts, fuel violent extremism, undermine governance and impedes our nation’s goals.”
Ribadu said the fireams act must be critically reviewed to strengthen the legal architecture, ensuring it effectively deters offenders, streamlines enforcement and aligns with international standards.
According to him, reviewing the Firearms Act will place the country in better position to adopt measures that will not only close existing loopholes, but also anticipate future challenges.
“Such measures may include stricter licencing procedures, comprehensive databases for tracing arms, harsher penalties for offenders and enhanced cross-border cooperation.
“We must ensure that our revised legislation integrates seamlessly with relevant international instruments such as the ECOWAS Convention on Small Arms and Light Weapons, the Arms Trade Treaty and the UN Programme of Action on Arms and Light Weapons, reinforcing Nigeria’s long-standing commitment to regional and global security.
“However, as we all know, this is a task that no single agency or institution can accomplish alone. We must work hand-in-hand, drawing on the strength of each sector to foster stability, protect our citizens and ensure the sanctity of human life,” he added. (NAN)