The National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW) is seeking collaboration with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to collectively fight the proliferation of illicit Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALWs) in Nigeria.
Major General HI Bature (Rtd), the North Central Zonal Coordinator, led a team for a sensitization and advocacy visit to the NYSC Batch ‘B’ stream 1 Orientation Course at Paiko Camp, Minna, Niger State. During the visit, he familiarized the corps members with the mandate and activities of the NCCSALW.
Giving a panoramic view of the proliferation of illicit SALWs, the Zonal Coordinator highlighted the threats posed by these weapons in the hands of unauthorized persons, as well as the various sources and devastating impact on communities.
Emphasizing the consequences of illicit firearms possession, the Zonal Coordinator reiterated the need for a comprehensive approach in tackling the menace.
The lecture focused on the role of youth in addressing the issue of illicit SALWs, emphasizing their significance as influencers and leaders in their respective places of primary assignments. Corps members were admonished to be of good conduct and serve as positive examples to their peers and communities, while propagating the mission of the NCCSALW as ambassadors.
The lecture was attended by 1,320 youth corps members, the State Coordinator of NYSC Niger State, Mrs. Olayinka Alidat Abdulwahab, the Camp Commandant, and other NYSC officials. The NCCSALW team included the Zonal Coordinator and his management team from the North Central Zonal Office in Minna.
