The Nigerian Senate has expressed serious concern over reports indicating that a large number of firearms are missing or unaccounted for, warning that the development could worsen the country’s security challenges if the weapons have fallen into the wrong hands.
According to reports presented to lawmakers, a total of 178,457 firearms, including 88,078 AK-47 rifles and about 3,900 other rifles and pistols, were documented as missing or unaccounted for.
The revelation has sparked concerns among legislators, who fear that the missing weapons could be exploited by terrorists, bandits, kidnappers, and other criminal groups operating across the country.
During deliberations, senators reportedly called for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the missing firearms and demanded accountability from agencies responsible for managing and safeguarding government armories.
Lawmakers stressed the need to strengthen oversight mechanisms and improve the tracking of weapons to prevent further losses and enhance national security.
The development comes amid ongoing efforts by security agencies to combat terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and other violent crimes affecting several parts of the country.
Authorities are expected to provide further clarification on the status of the missing weapons and measures being taken to recover them.