The Zonal Director of the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW), North East Zone, Major General Abubakar Adamu (Rtd), has emphasized the importance of inter-agency collaboration in curbing the proliferation of small arms and light weapons across the region. He stated that strategic synergy with the Nigerian Army will significantly enhance the Centre’s anti-proliferation campaign and contribute to achieving an arms-free society.

Major General Adamu made this assertion during a courtesy visit to the Acting General Officer Commanding (GOC) 7 Division, Nigerian Army/Commander Sector 1 Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI, Brigadier General Ugochukwu Unachukwu, on 26 August 2025 at the Division Headquarters, Maimalari Barracks, Maiduguri, Borno State.

The Zonal Director noted that the NCCSALW’s North East Zonal Office, recently established under the Office of the National Security Adviser, is tasked with the destruction of obsolete arms and ammunition, as well as the investigation and prosecution of illicit arms dealers operating in the region. He underscored the need for troops and security operatives to understand the Centre’s mandate in order to better support its operations in North-East Nigeria and the wider Sahel region.

According to General Adamu, “Effective collaboration and synergy will go a long way in addressing the security dynamics of the ongoing counterinsurgency efforts in the North-East.”

He expressed appreciation for the warm reception by the Division and stressed the importance of public awareness about the Centre’s multi-agency approach to combating the proliferation of small arms and light weapons. He also congratulated the Acting GOC on the Division’s notable achievements, describing its role as vital to regional peace and stability.

In response, Brigadier General Unachukwu congratulated Major General Adamu on his appointment and commended the Centre’s critical role in addressing arms proliferation. He highlighted the complex security challenges facing the region—including insurgency, terrorism, and armed violence—and reaffirmed the Division’s commitment to supporting the Centre’s operations.

The Acting GOC further emphasized the importance of inter-agency cooperation in tackling Nigeria’s contemporary security threats and pledged the Division’s full support for NCCSALW initiatives.

Highlights of the visit included a strategic closed-door meeting, signing of the Visitors’ Book, exchange of souvenirs, and a group photograph.

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