Effect of Small Arms and Light Weapons Proliferation on Community Security: a Case Study of Abuja Municipal Area Council (amac), Abuja, Nigeria

Student: Peter Inioluwa Oyelade (Project, 2025)
Department of Peace and Conflict Studies
Bamidele Olumilua University of Edu. Science and Tech. Ikere Ekiti, Ekiti State

Abstract

AbstractThe proliferation of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) poses a significant threat tocommunity security, particularly in the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), Federal CapitalTerritory, Nigeria. The study explores the sources, causes, and impacts of SALW on communitysecurity in AMAC, with emphasis on insurgency, banditry, and other forms of armed violence.Employing the Frustration-Aggression theory, the research investigates how socio-economicfactors such as poverty, unemployment, and systemic governance failures drive SALWproliferation. A mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative techniques,was used to collect data from diverse stakeholders, including security personnel, communityleaders, and civil society. Key findings reveal the role of Nigeria's porous borders, corruption,and ineffective arms control mechanisms in exacerbating the challenge. The study underscoresthe urgent need for robust policies, enhanced border security, and community-driven strategies tomitigate SALW proliferation and strengthen community security. Recommendations providedaim to guide policymakers, security agencies, and stakeholders in addressing this pressingsecurity concern.

Keywords
abuja effect light weapons proliferation community security municipal council nigeria
Filters
Institutions