Malam Nuhu Ribadu, the National Security Adviser (NSA), has strongly criticized corrupt personnel within security agencies for their detrimental impact on national security. During the Arms Destruction Exercise organized by the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW) at Muhammadu Buhari Cantonment in Giri, Abuja, he remarked on the severe consequences of security personnel engaging in corrupt practices, stating, “The worst human being is a policeman or a soldier who will take arms from his own formations and sell it or hide it out for bad people to come and kill his own colleagues.”
At the event on October 17, 2024, Ribadu highlighted that a large number of illicit arms used in criminal activities in Nigeria originate from government stockpiles. He attributed the proliferation of these weapons to corrupt elements within security agencies, who facilitate their transfer to non-state actors, including terrorists and bandits.
He called for immediate action to address this issue, emphasizing the need for decisive measures to recover the country and restore peace. Ribadu reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all Nigerians, stating, “If we want to recover our country and live in peace and stability, we have to take decisive steps.”
The NSA stressed the significance of the arms destruction exercise, which is part of ongoing efforts to combat arms proliferation in Nigeria. “By destroying unserviceable, obsolete, and recovered arms, we are demonstrating our commitment to a secure future for all Nigerians,” he added.
Retired DIG Johnson Kokumo, Director-General of NCCSALW, noted that this exercise was the third in a series since the center’s establishment and the first since he took command. He announced that over 2,400 illicit weapons, including unserviceable and decommissioned arms, would be destroyed during the event. Kokumo also emphasized the threat posed by the proliferation of small arms and light weapons (SALW) to peace and security in Nigeria and the West African sub-region, asserting that the destruction of these arms not only mitigates community risk but also sends a strong message against illegal trafficking and possession of firearms in Nigeria.
The event was attended by key military officials, including Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Christopher Musa, along with representatives from various security agencies, underscoring the collaborative effort required to tackle the challenge of arms proliferation.