Security News
Nigeria Sounds Alarm on Surge in Libyan Arms Smuggling, Urges International Intervention
Nigeria Sounds Alarm on Libyan Arms Influx, Demands Global Action.
Nigeria has raised concerns about the devastating impact of arms smuggling from Libya, linking it to escalating terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping within its borders. Hafsat Abubakar Bakari, CEO of the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), emphasized the urgent need for sustainable solutions to combat this growing threat.
The collapse of Libya’s government in 2011 has turned the country into a major hub for arms trafficking, with neighboring regions, including Nigeria, bearing the brunt. Terrorist groups like Boko Haram and ISWAP have exploited this situation, fueling violence and instability.
The Ripple Effects of Libya’s Instability
Libya’s unchecked arms trade has become a significant driver of conflict across West and North Africa. Nigeria’s porous borders and weak security frameworks have enabled the smuggling of these weapons, intensifying insurgencies and criminal activities.
Nigeria’s Call to Action
Bakari stressed the need for long-term solutions, urging global partners to support Nigeria’s fight against terrorism. She highlighted Nigeria’s efforts to strengthen its Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Financing of Terrorism and Proliferation (AML/CFT/CPF) framework.
Key Initiatives
– Reviving the Joint Task Force: Nigeria has revived the Joint Task Force on terrorism finance in the Sahel.
– International Collaboration: Nigeria is working closely with international partners to enhance its security and financial systems.
– Upcoming Agreement: Member states are set to meet in Abuja to sign an agreement formalizing efforts to combat terrorism financing.
Bakari’s message was clear: Nigeria needs institutional backing to achieve its goals. “We need your help to implement sustainable solutions to fight terrorism and disrupt the flow of weapons from Libya”.
Global Community Urged to Address Libya’s Arms Smuggling
Nigeria’s plea for international cooperation comes as the country grapples with the devastating consequences of Libya’s arms trafficking. The influx of weapons has:
1. Escalated terrorism and banditry
2. Intensified kidnapping and insurgency
3. Undermined regional stability
Regional Implications
The Sahel and Lake Chad regions are particularly vulnerable to Libya’s arms smuggling, with Nigeria, Niger, Chad, and Cameroon bearing the brunt.
Nigeria’s Reforms
Bakari highlighted Nigeria’s efforts to combat terrorism financing, including:
1. Strengthening AML/CFT/CPF frameworks
2. Enhancing financial intelligence sharing
3. Collaborating with international partners
International Support
Bakari’s visit to Washington, D.C. aimed to:
1. Raise awareness about Nigeria’s security challenges
2. Foster cooperation in combating terrorism financing
3. Secure support for regional stability initiatives
Key Takeaways
– Libya’s arms smuggling poses a significant threat to regional stability.
– Nigeria requires international support to combat terrorism financing.
– Sustainable solutions, not temporary measures, are crucial.
Security News
Gunmen Attack Plateau Community, Kill 3, Injure 2, and Destroy Farms [Photos]
Plateau Community Devastated by Gunmen Attack, 3 Dead, 2 Injured, Farms Destroyed.
Gunmen attacked the Rakwok community in Plateau State’s Barkin-Ladi Local Government Area on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, killing three youths and injuring two others. The victims were identified as Chollom Daniel, 27, Jang Joseph, 21, and Richard Dapel, 18.
Additionally, over 100 hectares of farms and harvested crops were destroyed in the Riyom axis of the state, with communities like Jol, Rim, Litton, and Rinyam severely affected. The past week has seen persistent incidents of harvested crops being set ablaze in Ghashishi, Barakin-Ladi Local Government Area.
Barrister Dalyop Solomon Mwantiri, President of the Berom Youth Moulders-Association, condemned the attacks, attributing them to Fulani militia. He urged security agencies, particularly Operation Safe Haven-OPSH, to intervene and stop the violence.
The Executive Chairman of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, Hon. Pwajok Stephen Gyang, visited Rakwok village, condemning the attacks and calling for increased security measures to prevent future incidents.
See Photos Below;
Security News
Nigerian Army Confirms Emergence of New Terrorist Group “Lukarawas” in Northwest
Nigerian Army Battles New Terror Group, Lukarawas, in Northwest.
The Nigerian Army has confirmed the emergence of a new terrorist group, Lukarawas, in the northwest region of the country. Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, announced this during a briefing in Abuja on Thursday, November 8.
According to Buba, Lukarawas originated from the Republic of Niger following the coup that disrupted military cooperation between Nigeria and Niger. The group exploited the cooperation gaps and difficult terrain to infiltrate remote areas in northwest states, spreading their ideology.
Initially, locals accepted the group, believing they meant well. However, they failed to report the group’s movements to military and security agencies. Troops are currently working to locate and eliminate the threat.
This development highlights concerns about rising insecurity in northwest Nigeria, where terrorist groups like Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (ISGS) and Jama’at Nusrat al Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM) are already active.
Security News
Ogun State Strengthens Security: Governor Abiodun Welcomes New NSCDC Commandant
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, Welcomes New NSCDC Commandant.
Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State officially received Commandant Remilekun Omolade Ekundayo, the new State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), on November 5, 2024. During the courtesy visit, Commandant Ekundayo expressed her appreciation for the governor’s continued support of the state’s security agencies.
The governor has been a strong advocate for security in Ogun State, previously receiving awards for his efforts, including the 2021 Best State Governor with the Most Improved State in Security Infrastructure by Business Day Newspaper ¹. Commandant Ekundayo specifically highlighted the provision of security kits and equipment that have significantly enhanced the Civil Defence Corps’ operations.
The meeting concluded with Governor Abiodun reaffirming his commitment to supporting the security services in Ogun State, particularly the NSCDC, in their mission to maintain public safety. This reassurance aligns with his administration’s focus on building a secure and prosperous Ogun State.
As the governor of Ogun State since 2019, Prince Dapo Abiodun has prioritized security, infrastructure, social welfare, education, youth empowerment, and agriculture through his “Building Our Future Together” agenda ¹. His administration’s efforts to bolster security have been instrumental in maintaining peace and stability in the region.
With the new NSCDC Commandant in place, Ogun State residents can expect continued collaboration between the government and security agencies to ensure their safety and well-being.
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