The Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Umar Garbai El-Kanemi has expressed concern over the unabated proliferation of small arms and light weapons into the security fragile northeast through international sources. The monarch made the observation when he received a delegation of the Coordinator, of the National Centre for Control of Small Arms and light weapons (NCCSALW), Mr. S.A Mohammed at his palace in Maiduguri, saying if the menace is not arrested on time capable of jeopardizing the successes achieved in terms of security in the northeast.
The Royal father explained that Borno state shares an international border with three different francophone countries of Cameroun, Chad, and Niger Republics and all have witnessed different forms of conflict in recent times which has contributed to the smuggling of weapons into the country.
He laments that the consequences of such acts may manifest in prolonged insecurity in the region and the country by extension which will have a negative impact on the socio-development of the country.
In his statement, he said, “Therefore, the Northeast zonal center should not be deterred in the task ahead, and we assure your team our unalloyed support in this task.”
Shehu assured the Coordinator that under his domain which has 59 District Heads, 591 Village Heads, and 7,000 ward Heads, he will ensure that public advocacy receives greater attention by convincing the locals of the roles they need to play in others to safeguard their communities.
Meanwhile, the coordinator highlighted the importance of traditional institutions as a critical stakeholder in the success of security through the creation of public awareness in the framework of the promotion of culture and peace through a non-violent process which is the core mandate of his office.
He assured the Royal father that his office periodically will keep tabs on the traditional institution in the discharge of their mandate.
Mr. Mohammed appreciated the support demonstrated by the traditional institution which has led to some successes recorded by his office in its operation against the terrorist-infested northeast since it began operation in the region.