Abia State Governor Alex Otti has reiterated his administration’s commitment to collaborating with federal agencies to curb the proliferation of small arms and light weapons in Nigeria.
The Governor made the remarks while receiving a delegation led by Captain Chris Anusiem, the newly appointed South East Zonal Director of the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons, at his office.
Governor Otti stressed the link between small arms and criminal activity, noting that “virtually all the crimes you see around are committed with light weapons and small arms. If we don’t eliminate them, or at least reduce them to the barest minimum, then we cannot have peace.”
He highlighted that his administration is actively working with security agencies to prevent criminals fleeing from neighboring states from settling in Abia, emphasizing the importance of regional cooperation in maintaining law and order.
Otti also expressed gratitude to the Federal Government for establishing the centre and thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing DIG Johnson Babatunde Kukum as Director General. He expressed confidence in the leadership of the centre under Kukum’s direction.
Captain Anusiem, who was visiting Abia State for a familiarization tour following his posting to Enugu to head the South East Zonal office, commended Governor Otti for maintaining peace in the state. He outlined the vision of the agency, emphasizing the goal of promoting a society free from illicit arms.
The visit underscores the growing collaboration between state and federal authorities to address the security challenges posed by illegal firearms. It also highlights the strategic role of the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons in fostering regional stability and reducing crime.
Through these efforts, both the state government and federal agencies aim to strengthen public safety, enhance security infrastructure, and ensure sustainable peace in Abia and the wider South East region.
