Nigeria Remains Committed to Curbing Illicit Arms Proliferation – IG Assures UN Delegation
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, on Thursday hosted a high-level delegation from the United Nations Regional Centre for Peace and Disarmament in Africa (UNREC) and the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW) at the Force Headquarters in Abuja, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s internal security and combat arms proliferation.
The delegation, led by Dr. Adedeji Ebo, included Mr. Anselme Yabouri, Director of UNREC; Miss Grub Nolwenn, a UNREC official; AIG Thomas Nebhon; and Lt. Col. O.N. Okon from the NCCSALW under the Office of the National Security Adviser. Also present were all Deputy Inspectors-General of Police, the Force Secretary, and other members of the Force Management Team.
The meeting focused on deepening inter-agency cooperation aimed at reducing the inflow of illicit small arms and light weapons across the country. The UN team commended the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) for its sustained efforts in tackling arms proliferation, especially in areas plagued by insecurity and criminal activities.
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Dr. Ebo emphasized the need for robust intelligence gathering, coordinated tracking systems, and effective disarmament programmes to combat the threat posed by illegal arms. He highlighted the importance of local and international partnerships in dismantling the networks that enable arms smuggling.
In his response, IGP Egbetokun expressed appreciation for the continued support of the United Nations and the Office of the National Security Adviser. He reiterated the police force’s unwavering resolve to intensify the mop-up of illicit arms and ensure the prosecution of individuals and groups involved in arms trafficking.
“The proliferation of illegal weapons poses a serious threat to public safety and national security,” the IGP said. “We remain committed to sustained action in tracking and recovering such weapons, and to deepening collaboration with relevant agencies and international partners to neutralize arms trafficking syndicates.”
According to the IGP, the Nigeria Police Force has already recovered thousands of firearms and ammunition in recent operations. He assured that under his leadership, the Force will continue to adopt intelligence-driven strategies and foster stronger partnerships to restore peace and security across the country.
The strategic engagement marks another step in the NPF’s broader agenda to fortify internal security and curb the menace of small arms and light weapons in Nigeria.
By PRNigeria
