By Chibuike Nwabuko
ABUJA (PRECISE POST) – Senator Ned Nwoko has renewed his call for the passage of his proposed self-defence bill, insisting that responsible and law-abiding Nigerians should be allowed to own firearms under a strict licensing regime to help tackle the country’s worsening security situation.
The lawmaker described the state of insecurity across Nigeria as “very sad,” arguing that qualified citizens should be legally empowered to protect themselves and their families after meeting stringent requirements.
According to Nwoko, the proposed legislation is not designed to arm every Nigerian but to create a carefully regulated system that allows only responsible citizens to possess firearms.
He explained that applicants would be required to undergo certified weapons handling and safety training, obtain medical certification confirming they are mentally fit, and secure recommendations from either their local government chairman or traditional ruler. In addition, prospective firearm owners would need security clearance from the state Director of the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Commissioner of Police before a licence could be issued.
The senator argued that while criminals continue to acquire and use illegal firearms, law-abiding citizens remain defenceless because they are denied the legal means to protect themselves.
He cited recurring attacks on schools and communities as examples of situations where trained and licensed civilians could have helped deter attackers or reduce casualties before the arrival of security agencies.
Beyond the self-defence bill, Nwoko also advocated the establishment of licensed military contractors in Nigeria through a separate legislative proposal.
He said the bill seeks to harness the expertise of retired military personnel, former security operatives and other trained professionals by organising them into regulated private security organisations that would complement conventional security agencies.
Drawing comparisons with countries including the Democratic Republic of the Congo, South Africa, Burkina Faso and Iraq, the senator said private military contractors have been successfully deployed in several jurisdictions to strengthen national security.
He added that the initiative would also create employment opportunities for retired security personnel while reducing the likelihood of highly trained former operatives being recruited into criminal networks or illegal arms trafficking.
Nwoko maintained that Nigeria invests substantial resources in training military and security personnel and should continue to benefit from their expertise after retirement through a properly regulated legal framework.
He urged Nigerians to support both legislative proposals, saying they would strengthen community security, empower responsible citizens to defend themselves, and complement the efforts of the nation’s security agencies in addressing insecurity.
