The Nigeria Customs Service has handed over a large haul of smuggled arms and ammunition to the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, as part of ongoing efforts to curb the spread of illegal weapons in the country.
According to The PUNCH, the handover, which took place on Thursday, involved 1,599 assorted firearms and 2,298 live cartridges, transferred to the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons in Lagos.
This move is in line with the federal government’s commitment to tackling illegal arms proliferation. On June 4, 2024, President Bola Tinubu signed the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons Act 2024 into law to strengthen the country’s security framework.
At the official handover ceremony at the Federal Operation Unit Zone “A” in Ikeja, Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, emphasized the critical role of the Customs Service in securing the nation’s borders.
“The track record of the service in intercepting illegal arms and ammunition underscores our frontline role in maintaining national security,” Adeniyi stated.
Adeniyi linked the seized arms to the wider security challenges facing the country, noting that transnational smuggling networks fuel domestic violence and instability.
He recalled a significant operation in May 2018, where the Customs Service intercepted 440 pump-action rifles concealed in bags of Plaster of Paris cement.
Through forensic analysis, Adeniyi explained that Customs was able to track and prosecute the smugglers behind the operation.
“We deployed forensic capabilities to analyse customs documentation and shipping records. With diplomatic support from the Turkish Embassy, we identified the purchasing company and, through financial records, traced those behind the illegal shipment,” he explained.
The Comptroller-General also highlighted a successful prosecution: “In collaboration with the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation, we prosecuted the case (Suit No: FHC/L/339C/2018) and secured convictions against key offenders.”
Adeniyi stressed the importance of the latest handover, saying, “This transfer symbolizes our commitment to disposing of seized arms properly and ensuring our nation is free from illegal weapons. We will continue to work with relevant authorities to enhance border security.”
In his remarks, Johnson Babatunde Kokumo, Director General of NCCSALW, who represented the National Security Adviser, commended the Customs Service for its dedication.
“The leadership of the Customs Service has shown steadfast determination, which is vital to our fight against the proliferation of illicit arms,” Kokumo said.
He also referenced another notable seizure made by Customs in July 2024, when 844 rifles and 112,500 rounds of ammunition were intercepted at the Onne port in Port Harcourt.
Kokumo praised the Customs Service for promptly handing over the weapons and arresting suspects, including principal suspect Ali Samson Ofoma, who is facing prosecution.
Kokumo highlighted the broader role of the NCCSALW in controlling small arms. “We not only receive illegally acquired arms but also implement strategies and policies, collaborate with law enforcement and international bodies, and manage a national weapons database,” he stated.
He assured that the Centre would continue its work to safeguard Nigeria from terrorism, kidnapping, and banditry.
Kokumo concluded by reaffirming the National Security Adviser’s ongoing support, adding, “Our collective efforts will continue to build a safer Nigeria.”
