By Sam Akanimo
Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has discovered a magic wand to contain the proliferation of small arms in Nigeria.For him, the worrisome issue of small arms proliferation can be tackled through a combination of economic, social, and kinetic strategies.
The governor underscored the need for effective control of small arms and light weapons to ensure the safety and security of the state.Governor Otu made the suggestion in his office during an audience with the management team of the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW), South -South zone, retired Major General Ifiok Obot.
The governor said the state is committed to collaborating with the Federal Government in combatting the proliferation of small arms and light weapons.This partnership, Otu continued, is crucial due to the state’s extensive borders, which present significant security challenges.
Taking concrete steps to support this initiative, Governor Otu instructed his Commissioner for Lands to allocate land for the construction of a permanent zonal office for the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons within a week.
Acknowledging Cross River’s designation as the safest state in the country, Governor Otu expressed a desire to further enhance security measures.He demanded for improved collaboration and synergy between the National Centre and local security agencies to exchange ideas and improve societal safety.Obot, the zonal coordinator of NCCSALW, highlighted the establishment of the National Centre in May 2021 through an Executive directive.
He stated that the delegation’s visit signifies a significant step towards strengthening efforts to control the spread of small arms and light weapons.He then thanked the Cross River State government for being a good host to the Zonal center.
