The Impact of Proliferation of Small Arms on Nigeria's National Security

Abstract

This study investigates the proliferation of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) in Nigeria from 2010 to 2025 and its implications for national security, guided by the Failed State Theory and the Human Security Theory. Using secondary data from ACLED, UNODC, the Small Arms Survey, and Nigerian government reports, the research identifies key drivers of SALW proliferation, including porous borders, insurgency dynamics, organized criminal networks, and persistent corruption. Findings show that the proliferation of SALW has fueled armed conflict, resulting in over 3.3 million internally displaced persons by 2023, with more than half being children, and imposing significant humanitarian and fiscal burdens on the state. Although tactical interventions such as arms seizures have had short-term effects, systemic weaknesses have prevented sustainable security improvements. In conclusion, the study confirms that SALW proliferation poses both structural and human security threats. Consistent with the Small Arms Survey (2023), the study recommends strengthening institutional capacity and enhancing border control to effectively curb the flow of illicit arms.