The Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) has inaugurated the North Central Zonal Office of the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW) in Minna, Niger State, as part of ongoing efforts to curb the proliferation of illegal arms in the region.
Speaking at the event, the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu—represented by the Director General of the Centre, retired Deputy Inspector General of Police Johnson Babatunde Kokumo—said the zonal facility will boost intelligence gathering, stakeholder engagement, and the implementation of policies aimed at mopping up unauthorized weapons.
Mallam Ribadu emphasized that the spread of small arms and light weapons remains one of the most serious threats to national security, enabling criminal groups such as terrorists, bandits, and kidnappers to operate with ease.
“The establishment of this office signifies the Federal Government’s commitment to securing the country and cutting off access to illegal arms,” he said, while urging Nigerians to remain vigilant and proactive in matters of security.
The North Central Zone—which includes Benue, FCT, Kogi, Kwara, Niger, Nasarawa, and Plateau States—has been severely impacted by armed violence, with thousands of lives lost and livelihoods destroyed due to the unchecked circulation of weapons.
Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago of Niger State, in his remarks, described the region as one of the worst affected by arms proliferation and called for sustained collaboration between the NSA’s office and state governments to address security concerns more effectively.
Representatives from various states in the North Central region commended the initiative, noting that the new office will serve as a strategic hub in the fight against arms trafficking and regional insecurity.