The Civil Society Groups for Good Governance (CSGGG) coalition has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to sign the National Commission for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NATCOM) Bill into law to bolster national security.
This appeal comes amid growing concerns about the proliferation of illegal firearms. Chief Ogakwu Dominic, the coalition’s president, emphasized the importance of active participation in governance, quoting Rohini Nilekani: “We cannot be mere consumers of good governance; we must be participants; we must be co-creators.”
The coalition highlighted the critical role NATCOM could play in curbing illegal arms while creating economic opportunities and employment for Nigerian youths. Dominic stated that NATCOM is designed to restrain the illicit trade of firearms, generate revenue, and provide jobs for over 7,000 unemployed youths in each state.
He noted that the commission, once operational, is expected to be self-funding and capable of offering substantial financial packages to over 10,000 graduates without relying on government appropriations.
Dominic underscored the devastating impact of uncontrolled weapons proliferation, which fuels violence, insecurity, and economic instability. “The illegal circulation of arms trade fuels violence and insecurity. It empowers criminals, disrupts communities, and creates a climate of fear,” he said.
The NATCOM Bill, passed by the National Assembly, aims to establish a specialized commission to comprehensively address these issues. The group stressed that signing the NATCOM Bill would enhance security and align with international and regional conventions, such as the United Nations Protocol on Firearms and the ECOWAS Convention on Small Arms and Light Weapons.
By enacting this bill, Nigeria would reaffirm its commitment to these agreements and take a significant step towards mitigating the national security threat posed by illegal arms. Dominic reiterated that the bill promises substantial economic benefits by creating a safer environment conducive to investment, sustainable development, and security gains.
He highlighted that NATCOM’s operational activities are expected to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) and encourage local businesses to expand. Additionally, the commission is projected to complement existing security outfits, including the Police, Customs, Civil Defence, Immigration, and the Military, enhancing overall effectiveness through collaboration and information-sharing.
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