Investigations have revealed that Nigeria has experienced 23 instances of illicit arms smuggling worth billions of naira over the past seven years. These illegal arms, which have significantly contributed to the country’s security challenges, particularly in the North-West and North-East regions, were smuggled through both land and water borders.
The illicit arms trade has exacerbated the ongoing conflicts and violence in these regions, fueling the activities of insurgent groups and criminal syndicates. Security experts have raised alarms about the sophistication of the smuggling networks and the variety of weapons being brought into the country, ranging from small arms to more advanced military-grade weaponry.
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has played a crucial role in intercepting some of these illegal arms shipments. However, the sheer volume and frequency of these incidents highlight the need for more robust and comprehensive measures to curb the influx. The NCS, along with other security agencies, has been working tirelessly to improve border security and increase surveillance to detect and prevent these illicit activities.
The ongoing investigation aims to identify and dismantle the networks responsible for this illegal trade. The Nigeria Customs Service and the National Security Adviser’s office are coordinating efforts to bring the perpetrators to justice and ensure that the seized ammunition does not make its way into the hands of criminal elements.
Authorities have emphasized the importance of international cooperation in addressing the issue, as the arms smuggling networks often operate across borders. Strengthening ties with neighboring countries and sharing intelligence are seen as critical steps in combating the proliferation of illicit arms.
Experts stress that addressing this issue is crucial for improving the overall security landscape in Nigeria. They call for a multifaceted approach that includes stricter border controls, enhanced intelligence gathering, and coordinated efforts among various security agencies to effectively tackle the problem.
