ACQUISITION OF SMALL ARMS AND LIGHT WEAPONS (SALW) AND ITS IMPACT ON INSECURITY ALONG NIGERIA-BENIN BORDER

Abstract

This paper examines the acquisition and proliferation of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) along the Nigeria- Benin border and how this fuels insecurity between 2017 and 2023. The study highlights the factors driving arms trafficking, the actors involved, and the consequences for border communities. The study is anchor on Frustration- Aggression theory and Criminogenic opportunity theory. Using a descriptive survey design, data was collected from residents, security personnel, and officials in Seme, Idiroko, and Jibia. Findings reveal that porous borders, corruption, weak enforcement, and transnational criminal networks contribute significantly to arms proliferation. The study concludes that SALW circulation remains a major driver of banditry, armed robbery, kidnapping, and communal clashes. It recommends strengthening border control, technological surveillance, regional cooperation, and strict accountability of security officers.