This study examines the impact of Nigeria’s National Policy on Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) on human security between 2015 and 2024. Against the backdrop of increasing armed violence, insurgency, and criminality, the study explores how the policy through its institutional frameworks has sought to curb the proliferation of illicit arms and improve citizen safety.

The research adopts a qualitative methodology, drawing on primary and secondary data from government reports, academic literature, and policy documents. It is anchored on the Human Security Theory, which emphasizes the protection of individuals from critical threats to their safety and well-being. Two core research questions guide this study: whether the National Policy has strengthened institutional capacity, and whether legislative frameworks have promoted socioeconomic stability. Findings reveal that (1) the National Centre for the Control of SALW (NCCSALW) and other institutions suffer from inadequate funding, weak inter-agency collaboration, and porous border controls, undermining their operational effectiveness. (2) Legislative frameworks, though well-articulated, remain poorly implemented, with corruption and political interference weakening arms control measures and impacting human security outcomes.

The study recommends: (1) enhancing institutional capacity through increased funding, advanced surveillance technologies, and improved coordination among security agencies; (2) initiating comprehensive legislative reforms, including the amendment of outdated laws like the Firearms Act (1990), and aligning them with regional instruments such as the ECOWAS Convention on SALW. These steps are essential to addressing arms proliferation and promoting sustainable human security in Nigeria.