By: Emmanuel Abi Couson
The Nigeria,s Defence Minister, Alh. Muhammad Badaru Abubakar CON,mni has discussed with the representative of the Libyan government to tackle the growing proliferation of small arms and light weapons as part of the strategic partnership to improve security, reduce the menace of illicit drugs, and enhance stability in both countries.
The Minister disclosed this when he gave an audience to the Libyan National Security Agency delegation on Sunday, 21st April 2024, at the sideline of the ongoing High-level African Counter Terrorism Meeting held at the Office of the National Security Adviser in Abuja.
Badaru assured of Nigeria’s readiness to continue working with other African countries and partners to strengthen collective efforts at both regional and international levels. According to him, illicit trade in small arms and light weapons knows no borders and respects no laws, making continuous collaboration imperative.
Earlier, the Head of delegation and representative of the Libyan National Security Agency, General Mohammed M.M Azain, disclosed that the visit to Nigeria was to discuss pressing security issues affecting both countries and share views on tackling the dual menace of small arms proliferation and illicit light weapons.
The duo promised to continue to strategise on how to tackle the proliferation of small arms and light weapons and the trafficking of illicit drugs from Libya to Nigeria for the safety and stability of both countries and their citizens.
Recognizing the importance of the collaborative efforts, the Minister and the Libyan delegation also discussed the crucial aspect of sharing Intelligence and Information. According to them, exchanging data and information between the two countries will play a pivotal role in accurate and actionable policy planning and direction, which will benefit both countries.
