The National Security Adviser, NSA, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has indicated that a large number of illegal weapons being used in Nigeria were owned by the Federal Government.

He made this statement during the arms destruction exercise conducted by the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW) at the Muhammadu Buhari Cantonment in Abuja.

Ribadu mentioned that these weapons are in circulation due to corrupt individuals within the security agencies in the country.

The NSA criticised security officials who are involved in distributing weapons to terrorists, bandits and other non-state actors.

He affirmed plans to ensure that Nigeria is secure and protected from both internal and external threats.