The Nigeria Customs Service intercepted about 603 firearms that entered the country between January and August 2026, according to figures reported by The PUNCH.
The weapons were handed over to the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons as authorities prepare for Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.
The seizure comes as Nigerian security agencies face continued concerns about the movement of illegal weapons and the potential impact of arms trafficking on electoral violence.
Nigeria’s presidential and National Assembly elections are scheduled for January 16, 2027, while governorship and State House of Assembly elections are scheduled for February 6.
The 2027 elections will be conducted under the Electoral Act 2026, following changes to Nigeria’s electoral framework.
Authorities have repeatedly warned about the risks posed by illegal firearms, particularly in a country already dealing with armed criminal groups and insecurity in several regions.
The seizure figure highlights the importance of border controls as Nigeria moves toward another election cycle.
SOURCES:
The PUNCH — Customs seizes 603 firearms
