Small Arms Proliferation and Regional Security: Ecowas and United Nations Interventions in Nigeria (2015- 2024)

Amadi, Cletus Okechukwu and Onu, Richard Obiora (2026) Small Arms Proliferation and Regional Security: Ecowas and United Nations Interventions in Nigeria (2015- 2024). Global Journal of Current and Innovative Research, 11 (2). pp. 1-11. ISSN 3069-1702

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Abstract

The proliferation of small arms and light weapons has become a major threat to peace and security in Nigeria and the wider West African region. This study examined small arms proliferation and regional security with particular focus on the interventions of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the United Nations in Nigeria between 2015 and 2024. The study adopted a qualitative research design and relied on secondary data obtained from academic publications, policy documents, and international security reports. Conflict theory was used as the theoretical framework to explain how competition for power, resources, and political influence contributes to armed conflicts and the demand for illicit weapons. The findings revealed that porous borders, weak institutional capacity, regional conflicts, and the activities of transnational criminal networks have significantly contributed to the proliferation of small arms in Nigeria. The analysis also showed that the availability of these weapons has intensified insurgency, banditry, communal violence, and organized crime across different parts of the country. Furthermore, the study found that although ECOWAS and the United Nations have implemented various arms control frameworks and regional security initiatives, challenges such as weak enforcement mechanisms and inadequate coordination among security agencies continue to undermine these efforts. The study concludes that effective control of small arms proliferation requires stronger regional cooperation, improved border management, and enhanced institutional capacity to promote sustainable peace and security in Nigeria.

Item Type: Article
Subjects: J Political Science > JZ International relations
Divisions: Faculty of Arts > Faculty of Law > Faculty of Management and Social Sciences > Faculty of Education
Depositing User: Uchenna Eneogwe
Date Deposited: 06 May 2026 10:56
Last Modified: 06 May 2026 10:56
URI: http://eprints.gouni.edu.ng/id/eprint/5650

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