By Gbenga Akingbule
National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has expressed its readiness towards combating the proliferation of small arms and light weapons in the country.
Gatekeepers News reports that NANS National Vice President, Special Duties, Comrade Suleiman Muhammad Sarki made the disclosure during a recent visit to the National Center for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons Northeast Zone.
Comrade Sarki, who commended the center for its relentless efforts in ensuring the safety and security of the Nigerian people, assured that NANS is set to partner with the Center to reduce the devastating impact of small arms and light weapons particularly in the Northeast region.
According to NANS, the implementation of sensitization and awareness programs in higher institutions of learning and secondary schools will be vigorously pursued through the creation Small Arms and Light Weapons Free Society Club.
The Students Union body stated that plans are underway to educate students and young adults about the dangers associated with the illegal use of “these weapons and how they can contribute to their control.”
“We also intend to establish ambassadors for this cause in various communities across the Northeast.
“NANS is already planning to write a small book on sensitization and awareness campaigns. This publication will be translated into different languages and distributed to communities, tertiary institutions, and secondary schools.
“Additionally, NANS has produced stickers, flyers, and posters containing messages that highlight the dangers of illegal weapon use. These materials will be strategically placed in public spaces, vehicles, tricycles, and other commercial outlets to enhance the dissemination of the messages,” NANS Said.
NANS therefore appealed for the center’s collaboration in empowering students and youths to provide crucial information that can aid in curbing the illicit arms trade.
The zonal coordinator of the National Center For The Control Of Small Arms and Light Weapons, Northeast Zone, Rear Admiral S.A. Mohammed, expressed gratitude for the visit and acknowledged the importance of collaboration between the center and NANS.
