**Transporters Join Forces to Combat Arms Proliferation in Calabar** In a bid to strengthen security in the South-South region, the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW) has launched a collaborative effort with transport unions in Calabar. The move seeks to prevent the spread of illicit firearms through the transport system and enhance public safety. At a recent sensitisation session, drivers and transport union leaders were educated on the critical role they play in tackling insecurity. They were urged to work closely with the Centre to prevent the conveyance of illegal arms through their services. This partnership is a significant step towards addressing the scourge of arms proliferation, which remains a major driver of insecurity globally. The NCCSALW is a key institution in Nigeria's efforts to combat small arms and light weapons. Established in 2021, the Centre operates under the Office of the National Security Adviser and has six zonal offices nationwide. Its South-South hub in Calabar plays a crucial role in addressing the proliferation of small arms in the region. Experts warn that the availability of firearms fuels violent crimes, including terrorism, armed robbery, and communal conflicts. In Nigeria, possession of firearms requires police licensing, and ammunition poses a significant threat to public safety. Transporters have a critical role to play in preventing the spread of illicit arms, as they are often the first point of contact for passengers seeking to transport suspicious luggage. The NCCSALW has cautioned transporters against accepting inducements from passengers seeking to avoid inspection. They have also been warned that ignorance of the law does not absolve anyone of liability, and both vehicle owners and drivers can face prosecution for conveying passengers found with illegal arms. Transport companies have been urged to institutionalise strict compliance measures, including mandatory luggage checks and enforceable internal security policies. This move is seen as a crucial step towards preventing operators from unknowingly aiding criminal activities. As the NCCSALW continues to engage with transport unions in Calabar, the hope is that this partnership will yield positive results in the fight against arms proliferation. With the support of transporters, the Centre is better equipped to combat the scourge of small arms and light weapons, ultimately enhancing public safety and community security in the region.