NSA Reveals Federal Government Weapons Fuel Terrorism in Nigeria, Calls for Urgent Action

NSA Reveals Federal Government Weapons Fuel Terrorism in Nigeria, Calls for Urgent Action

The National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has disclosed that a significant portion of the illicit weapons used by terrorists and bandits in Nigeria were originally government-owned arms. Ribadu made this revelation on Thursday, October 17, 2024, during the Arms Destruction Exercise organized by the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW), under the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) in Abuja.

The NSA explained that these weapons found their way into the hands of criminals due to corrupt individuals within the nation’s security agencies. He expressed deep concern over this issue, stressing that the actions of these rogue elements have contributed to Nigeria’s security challenges.

“We need to put an end to this if we are serious about recovering our country and achieving lasting peace and stability,” Ribadu stated.

He further condemned the actions of security personnel who sell or misplace arms, which end up being used against their fellow citizens. “The worst kind of betrayal is a policeman or soldier who takes weapons from his own unit and provides them to criminals who then use them to harm their colleagues,” he added.

In addition to addressing internal corruption, Ribadu highlighted the threat posed by external actors. He pointed out that the proliferation of illicit small arms and light weapons remains a critical challenge, fueling insurgency, banditry, and other forms of violent crime across Nigeria.

Despite these challenges, Ribadu assured the public that Nigeria has the capacity to manage and resolve its security issues, calling for stronger measures to curb the flow of illegal arms and safeguard national security.