By Joy Omagha Idam
The growing proliferation of illicit small arms and light weapons continues to pose a serious threat to peace, security and national development in Nigeria, security experts and peace advocates have warned.
The concern formed the focus of discussions at the General Meeting and National Executive Council election of the West African Action Network on Small Arms (WAANSA) Nigeria held in Abuja, where delegates elected Jamila Abubakar of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Kaduna Network Centre, as the new President of the organisation.
Abubakar, an active member of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), will lead WAANSA Nigeria for the next three years, spearheading advocacy and strategic interventions aimed at curbing the illicit proliferation of small arms and light weapons while promoting peace, security and conflict prevention across the country.
Her emergence was witnessed by a strong delegation of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) led by the National Chairperson, Hajia Aisha Ibrahim, who attended the event in solidarity and support for the newly elected President. The delegation underscored NAWOJ’s continued commitment to advancing peacebuilding initiatives and supporting women in leadership.
Others on the delegation of NAWOJ included; Chizoba Ogbeche, Vice President NAWOJ Zone D, Anne Daniel Member BoT Zone D NAWOJ, Princess Ekwi Ajide, Ex Officio NAWOJ FCT and Former Chairperson NAWOJ FCT, Princess Joy Omagha Idam.
Earlier, the First Regional Vice President of WAANSA, Martin Igwe, announced plans to intensify grassroots campaigns on the dangers associated with the misuse of fertiliser, noting that while fertilisers are vital for agricultural production, they are increasingly being diverted by criminal elements for the manufacture of improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
According to him, WAANSA Nigeria will embark on nationwide sensitisation campaigns to educate farmers and local communities on the proper handling and use of fertiliser. He said the initiative would help strengthen national security, enhance agricultural productivity, improve food security, create employment opportunities for young people and contribute to the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Igwe commended the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) for its consistent support of WAANSA’s peace and security advocacy, describing the association as a dependable partner in promoting public awareness on issues affecting national security.
He also noted that some aspects of the organisation’s activities involve sensitive collaborations with security agencies, requiring careful handling of operational information.
Speaking on the leadership transition, Igwe expressed confidence that the newly elected executive would consolidate the achievements of the outgoing leadership, deepen stakeholder engagement and strengthen the organisation’s impact in combating the proliferation of illicit small arms.
The immediate past President of WAANSA Nigeria, Temitope Lamidi, reflected on the commitment and sacrifices of members in advancing campaigns against the illicit circulation of small arms and light weapons. He highlighted the network’s contributions to advocacy efforts that supported the establishment of the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons.
In her acceptance speech, the new President, Jamila Abubakar, pledged to uphold the ideals and vision of WAANSA Nigeria by working closely with security agencies, development partners and relevant stakeholders to address the country’s security challenges through advocacy, collaboration and community engagement.
She reaffirmed WAANSA Nigeria’s commitment to supporting initiatives that reduce armed violence, strengthen community resilience and promote lasting peace and security across Nigeria.