The Governor of Plateau, Simon Lalong, has attributed the prevailing insecurity in Nigeria to the proliferation of arms and ammunition by non-state actors.

“The level at which un-permitted persons get access to arms and ammunition in the country is worrisome. This has increased the cases of kidnapping, violent crimes and terrorism across the nation,” the governor said.

Mr Lalong, who spoke while declaring open the 2022 Bi-annual Nigerian Small Arms Championship (NASAC) at the 3 Division Small Arms Range Miango, near Jos, described the situation as worrisome, and called on the Nigerian Army to mop up arms from non-state actors in the state to curb insecurity.

“Let me also use this opportunity to request that the Nigerian Army and indeed the security agencies in the country do more to ensure that arms are taken away from non-state actors,” Mr Lalong said, adding that the action would ensure the protection of lives and property and build the public’s confidence.

“I have vowed that under my watch, no part of Plateau will be a safe haven for criminals and terrorists. I count on the support and collaboration of the Nigerian Army towards ensuring that this determination is enforced,” he said.

The governor stressed the need for synergy among security agencies for better results in addressing security challenges, noting that criminals were becoming more sophisticated in their approaches.

In his remarks, the Chief of the Army Staff, Farouk Yahaya, explained that small arms were used by the army to carry out some of its activities, especially the asymmetric warfare.

(NAN)