The influence of small arms proliferation on international organizations activities in northwestern Nigeria
Keywords:
Insecurity, International Organization, ECOWAS, Northwestern Nigeria, Small Arms and Light WeaponsAbstract
This article examines how the proliferation of small arms and light weapons shapes the operational realities of international organizations working in Northwestern Nigeria. Employing a qualitative research design, data were collected through key informant interviews across five states, complemented by field observations and review of official documents and scholarly sources. Structural realism provides the analytical lens, explaining why external actors such as the United Nations, ECOWAS, and donor agencies struggle to influence security outcomes in an environment marked by weak governance, porous borders, corruption, and the growing strength of non-state armed groups. Findings reveal that, although regional treaties, donor funding, and technical assistance offer valuable support, their impact is often limited by implementation gaps, fluctuating political will, and local mistrust of external motives. The article proposes short-term measures emphasizing financial transparency, medium-term reforms to strengthen local capacities, and long-term strategies promoting updated regional agreements and cross-border cooperation. The article concludes, it highlights structural constraints that restrict international engagement in conflict zones and underscores the need for robust local-global partnerships.
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