Abia Government Joins Federal Efforts Against Proliferation of Small Arms and Light Weapons

The Abia State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Federal Government’s ongoing campaign against the spread of small arms and light weapons in Nigeria.

Governor Alex Otti emphasized this position while hosting a delegation led by Captain Chris Anusiem, the newly appointed South East Zonal Director of the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW), during their courtesy visit to his office.

Governor Otti noted that the disturbing rise in crimes across the country is largely fueled by the unchecked circulation of illicit weapons. He pointed out that almost every violent act is executed with light arms, stressing the urgent need for collaborative measures to reduce such threats.

“Virtually, all the crimes you see around are committed with light weapons and small arms.
If we don’t eliminate them, or at least reduce them to the barest minimum, then we cannot have peace,” the Governor said.

Security Commitment in Abia State

Otti highlighted that his administration is actively working with relevant security agencies to ensure that criminals escaping from neighboring states do not find refuge in Abia. He assured that strategies are in place to reinforce security and maintain law and order across the state.

The Governor also expressed gratitude to the Federal Government for establishing the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons. He appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing DIG Johnson Babatunde Kukum, his close associate, as the Director General of the Centre. According to Otti, the appointment is a positive step, and he expressed confidence in Kukum’s ability to deliver excellent results.

Familiarization Visit by NCCSALW

In his remarks, Captain Chris Anusiem explained that his visit was part of a familiarization tour following his posting to Enugu to head the South East Zonal office of NCCSALW. He praised Governor Otti’s administration for its effective peace-keeping efforts in Abia State.

Anusiem further reiterated that the vision of the National Centre is to promote an illicit arms-free society, aligning with global security best practices. According to him, reducing the proliferation of illegal arms is key to ensuring lasting peace and sustainable development in Nigeria.

This collaboration between Abia State and the Federal Government represents a critical step in addressing insecurity, fostering community safety, and creating an environment that supports peace and progress.