Efforts to curb the proliferation of illicit small arms and light weapons in Nigeria have received a boost in Niger State following a strategic partnership between the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) and the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW).

The Commander of the 013 Quick Response Force (QRF), Nigerian Air Force, Minna, Group Captain K.O. Akinyosade, made the call for enhanced inter-agency collaboration during a meeting with officials of the NCCSALW, North Central Zone.

Akinyosade stressed that strengthening partnerships among security agencies is critical to addressing the growing threat posed by illicit arms in the hands of non-state actors. He noted that collaboration, particularly in intelligence sharing, would significantly enhance national security operations.

He explained that the 013 QRF, established in 2018, was designed to provide rapid air response to security threats such as terrorism, kidnapping, and other criminal activities. According to him, the unit is fully prepared to partner with NCCSALW to tackle the rising circulation of illegal weapons across the country.

In his response, the Zonal Director of NCCSALW, Enenche, underscored the importance of inter-agency synergy in combating illicit arms proliferation. He stated that the Centre was established by Presidential Executive Order in 2021 and later enacted into law in 2024, operating under the Office of the National Security Adviser.

Enenche welcomed the partnership with the Air Force and highlighted the Centre’s ongoing efforts to educate communities and key stakeholders on the dangers of illicit arms.

“We conduct sensitisation programmes for traditional rulers, faith-based organisations, market traders, security agencies, and motor park unions to raise awareness about the risks associated with illicit arms proliferation,” he said.

He identified air, land, and maritime borders as major entry points for illegal weapons, while lamenting the activities of some blacksmiths who now fabricate firearms instead of traditional farming tools.

The NCCSALW Zonal Director also disclosed that the Centre follows international best practices in the destruction of seized weapons and plans to leverage technology to further strengthen its operations.

Meanwhile, the Assistant Director, Support Services, Lt. Col. O.K. Olagungu, called for deeper collaboration, particularly during the planning stages of security operations, stressing the need to involve NCCSALW early for effective intelligence sharing.