NCCSALW Sensitizes NYSC Corps Members in Kwara on Dangers of Small Arms Proliferation

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BY UTHMAN BABA-NASEER,MINNA

The National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW), North Central Zonal Office, has sensitized Batch 'B' Stream I Corps Members in Kwara State on the dangers of the proliferation of small arms and light weapons and the role of youths in promoting peace and security.

This was contained in a statement issued by the Centre  North Central Headquarters in Minna and made available to Journalists in Minna the Niger State capital.

The sensitization and advocacy programme was held on June 23, 2026, at the NYSC Temporary Orientation Camp, Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin. The event was facilitated by the Zonal Assistant Director, Support Services, Lt. Col. O.K. Olagunju (Rtd), and attracted 1,496 Corps Members.

Speaking during the programme, Lt. Col. Olagunju explained that NCCSALW was established by law in 2024 to coordinate national efforts aimed at preventing and controlling the spread of illicit small arms and light weapons through collaboration with security agencies, government institutions, and other stakeholders.

He educated the Corps Members on the difference between small arms and light weapons, noting that small arms such as pistols, rifles, and AK-47 rifles are designed for individual use, while light weapons, including machine guns and grenade launchers, are operated by small groups. According to him, the portability and ease of concealment of these weapons have contributed significantly to their widespread use in criminal activities.

The NCCSALW official warned that the unchecked proliferation of illegal arms has continued to fuel terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, armed robbery, and communal conflicts across the country. 

He identified illegal cross-border trafficking, theft from security institutions, local fabrication, and ongoing armed conflicts as major factors driving the spread of illicit weapons.

Lt. Col. Olagunju urged Corps Members to serve as ambassadors of peace in their communities by creating awareness about the dangers of illegal arms, supporting peace-building initiatives, and reporting suspicious activities to security agencies. He advised them to avoid involvement in violence or communal disputes and instead work closely with security agencies and NYSC officials to promote dialogue and peaceful coexistence.

The programme featured an interactive question-and-answer session during which Corps Members expressed concerns about the safety of individuals who provide information to security agencies. Responding, the presenter assured participants that measures are in place to protect the identities of informants and encourage public cooperation in tackling insecurity.

To sustain awareness and strengthen communication with the Centre, informational handbills and flyers containing NCCSALW contact details were distributed to participants at the end of the programme.

The sensitization programme is part of ongoing efforts by NCCSALW to engage young Nigerians in the campaign against the proliferation of illicit small arms and light weapons and to promote a safer and more peaceful society.