40% of West Africa’s Illicit Arms End Up in Nigeria, CDS Reveals

By Samuel Ogunsona

The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has sounded the alarm on the proliferation of illicit small arms and light weapons in West Africa, with a staggering 40% of these weapons ending up in Nigeria.

Speaking at the second Distinguished Personality Lecture organized by the TETFund Centre of Excellence in Security Management at the University of Ibadan, Musa highlighted the gravity of the situation.

According to Musa, over 500 million illicit arms are circulating in West Africa, fueling violence and insecurity in the region.

He attributed the influx of these weapons to porous borders and weak governance in remote regions, which have empowered terrorists, bandits, and ethnic militias.

Musa emphasized that Nigeria’s security is not just threatened by internal factors but also by global fragility. “We must respond with resilience, innovation, and collective will.

“No nation is an island in today’s security landscape,” he said.

The CDS also raised concerns about the rising influence of disinformation and online radicalization, noting that digital platforms are being used to spread ethnic hatred and undermine public trust.

He advocated for a multi-agency approach to security management, enhanced border security, and greater collaboration with neighboring countries and international partners.

“Security is no longer just about guns and boots. It’s about sustainable development, responsive governance, and empowered communities,” Musa said, emphasizing the need for investment in youth empowerment, education, agriculture, and entrepreneurship to address the root causes of insecurity.