The Economic Community of West African States has urged for a multi-sectoral strategy to address the sub-regions proliferation of small arms and light weapons.
ECOWAS made the statement at the conclusion of a three-day workshop in Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria, with key stakeholders.
According to a statement issued on Monday, the ECOWAS Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security, Mr Abdel-Fatal Musah, emphasised the need of concerted efforts to combat arms proliferation.
Musah, who was represented at the workshop by Mr Ahoba Piex, called for the formation of a National Commission on Small Arms to address the issue in the sub-region.
Musah stated that ECOWAS highlighted Nigeria’s accomplishments in small arms and light weapons control, as well as the need of coordinating with global disarmament measures.
He said, “Government officials must muster the political will to uphold reintegration promises made’’.
Similarly, Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to ECOWAS, Mr Musa Nuhu, acknowledged the ECOWAS Convention on SALW as an important instrument for promoting peace, stability, and development.
Nuhu, represented by Mr Abdullahi Isah, stated that the workshop will be a good platform for improving understanding of the convention and identifying essential areas for development.
“I urge you all to formulate strong strategies, foster coordinated efforts, and enhance regional cooperation to tackle the threats posed by SALW,’’ Nuhu added.
cc: Punch Ng
