Governor Nwifuru Receives NCCSALW, Reaffirms Commitment to Security
By Ikenyim Eucharia
Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, on Monday, received a delegation from the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW) at his office in Centenary City, Abakaliki.
Speaking during the visit, Governor Nwifuru reiterated his administration’s zero-tolerance policy toward illegal arms trade, aligning with the state’s “People’s Charter of Needs” agenda. He emphasized that security remains a cornerstone of his government’s development strategy.
"Peace and security are the very foundation of sustainable development. No meaningful progress can occur in an environment plagued by conflict and disunity," the governor said. "As far as I am concerned, peace is the only path to lasting development."
He thanked the NCCSALW for their nationwide efforts in promoting peace and pledged his government’s support in complementing their work, particularly in the Southeast region.
"I promise to support your efforts and collaborate with you to maintain peace and stability across the Southeast," he stated.
In his remarks, Navy Captain Chris Onusiem (Rtd.), Southeast Zonal Coordinator of the NCCSALW, explained that the agency was formally established under law in June 2024 by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Its mandate is to create an arms-free society through coordinated control of small arms and light weapons.
Onusiem outlined the agency’s objectives, including:
Institutionalizing small arms and light weapons control at all levels of government
Monitoring and eradicating the proliferation of illicit arms
Promoting community-based strategies to combat illegal arms possession
Partnering with security agencies and stakeholders to ensure weapons do not fall into the wrong hands
He commended Ebonyi State for its reputation as one of the most peaceful states in Nigeria and assured the governor of continued collaboration to maintain that status.
"The Centre will continue to partner with your administration to ensure a safe and secure environment for all," Onusiem affirmed.
The meeting concluded with both parties expressing optimism about the success of ongoing and future peacebuilding efforts in the region.
