A group, Civil Society Groups for Good Governance (CSGGG) has issued a fervent call for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to sign the National Commission for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NATCOM) Bill into law to enhance national security.
This urgent appeal comes amidst escalating concerns about national security and the proliferation of illegal firearms.
CSGGG President Chief Ogakwu Dominic made the call on Monday in Abuja.
Quoting Rohini Nilekani, he stated, “We can not be mere consumers of good governance, we must be participants; we must be co-creators.”
The group underscores this sentiment, emphasizing the critical role that NATCOM could play in not just curbing illegal arms but also creating economic opportunities and employment for Nigerian youths.
Dominic said NATCOM is envisioned as a pivotal institution aimed at restraining the illicit trade of firearms while simultaneously generating revenue and providing employment for over 7,000 unemployed youths in each state of the federation.
He noted that if operational, the commission is expected to self-fund and provide substantial financial packages to over 10,000 graduates without government appropriations.
He highlighted the devastating consequences of uncontrolled weapons proliferation, which fuels violence, insecurity, and economic instability.
“The illegal circulation of arms trade fuels violence and insecurity. It empowers criminals, disrupts communities, and creates a climate of fear,” he said.
Dominic emphasized that the proliferation of small arms and light weapons (SALWs) has been a significant factor in Nigeria’s security challenges, leading to increased banditry, kidnapping, and other violent crimes.
He noted that the NATCOM Bill, passed by the National Assembly, proposes the establishment of a specialized commission to address these issues comprehensively.
The group’s plea emphasizes that signing the NATCOM Bill is not just about enhancing security but also aligns with international and regional conventions such as the United Nations Protocol on Firearms and the ECOWAS Convention on Small Arms and Light Weapons.
He said that by doing so, Nigeria would reaffirm its commitment to these agreements and take a significant step towards addressing the national security threat posed by illegal arms.
He reiterated that in addition to security gains, the bill promises substantial economic benefits by creating a safer environment conducive to investment and sustainable development.
He stressed that the operational activities of NATCOM are expected to attract Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and encourage local businesses to expand.
He furthermore said the commission is projected to complement existing security outfits such as the Police, customs, civil defence, Immigration, and the military, enhancing overall effectiveness through collaboration and information-sharing.
Dominic urged all stakeholders to support this critical initiative, emphasizing that the assent to the NATCOM Bill is a moral imperative for safeguarding the nation’s security, advancing economic prosperity, and fostering social cohesion.
“Together, we can build a safer, more prosperous future for generations to come,” he said.
