This assertion was made by Nuhu Ribadu, the National Security Adviser, who maintained that there was a dramatic decline in terrorism-related deaths and the availability of AK-47 firearms in the country lately.
The Nigerian government has asserted that terrorists operating within the country are encountering challenges in their ability to carry out killings due to the increased cost of AK-47 firearms and other weaponry.
Nuhu Ribadu, the National Security Adviser, made this declaration, affirming a notable reduction in terrorism-related fatalities and the accessibility of AK-47 firearms across the nation in recent times.
Speaking at the High-Level African Counter-Terrorism Meeting in Abuja on Monday, Ribadu underscored the progress made in Nigeria’s anti-terrorism efforts.
He highlighted the significant increase in the price of AK-47 firearms, which has surged from less than N1 million to over N5 million in the past year.
Ribadu remarked, “We are making progress, and I believe we have made significant strides. One of the indicators of change is the cost of AK47, for instance.”
He continued, “Previously, it was priced at less than N1 million, sometimes even dropping below N500,000. Now it’s N5 million, indicating its scarcity. We are removing them; we are dismantling them.”
Ribadu further stated, “There has been considerable improvement in Nigeria. Consequently, we have reduced violent crime-related deaths and firearm usage by over 90% in the past year.”
He elaborated, “Previously, we recorded approximately 2,600 deaths monthly; now, it is below 200. This indicates the effectiveness of our efforts.”
Ribadu acknowledged the behind-the-scenes efforts and commended the armed forces, security personnel, and governors for their diligent work in combating terrorism and violent crimes.