Yobe Stakeholders Meet to Address Critical Issues of Weapons,Ammunition Management

In a significant step towards improving security in the Northeast, the CLEEN Foundation,in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), launched a four-day capacity-building workshop on Weapons and Ammunition Management (WAM) in Yobe State on Monday. 

This training initiative aims to enhance the skills of various stakeholders in curbing the proliferation of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW), which have long been recognized as key drivers of insecurity in the region.

The workshop gathered a diverse group of participants, including representatives from security agencies, government officials, civil society organizations, religious leaders, media representatives, and community activists all committed to SALW control efforts. 

Through this collaborative endeavor, organizers seek to align local practices with global standards to bolster arms management frameworks in post-conflict areas like Yobe.

In his welcome address,the program officer, CLEEN Foundation, Nnamdi Odo said, regions such as Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa grappling with a decade-long insurgency, the issues of smuggled and unaccounted weapons remain a pressing concern,leading to heightened risks of accidental explosions and civilian casualties. 

He revealed,recent developments indicate that a draft Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for small arms management was finalized three weeks ago and is currently under refinement for adoption by Yobe State authorities.

Mr.Odo further highlighted that,the initiative underscores a broader commitment to enhancing security and preventing violence in Nigeria’s conflict-affected areas.

" It is anticipated that the knowledge and skills gained from this workshop will contribute to ongoing efforts to reduce armed violence and foster stability in Northeast Nigeria.

"Overall, the workshop not only aims to create a more secure environment but also promotes peace-building through effective arms management.

"As participants engage with best practices and strategies, they aim to drive meaningful change to curb the alarming trend of armed violence in the region",he added.