UN Reveals Weapons Looted During 2011 Libya Conflict Ended Up With Extremist Groups in Nigeria

The United Nations has disclosed that weapons looted during the 2011 conflict in Libya later found their way into the hands of extremist groups operating in Nigeria, according to a statement by the UN Under Secretary General and High Representative for Disarmament Affairs, Izumi Nakamitsu. 

Addressing delegates at the UN Headquarters in New York during discussions on the global spread of illicit firearms, Nakamitsu warned that arms diverted or stolen during armed conflicts often continue to fuel violence long after hostilities have ended, contributing to instability, terrorism, and organised crime across national borders. 

The UN official noted that the continued circulation of illicit firearms poses a major challenge to peacebuilding efforts, particularly in fragile and conflict-affected societies, as weapons retained by armed groups, militias, and even local communities for self-defence often contribute to renewed cycles of violence. 

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She further warned that the proliferation of small arms and light weapons is closely linked to security and humanitarian concerns, including terrorism, human rights violations, and gender based violence, stating that it is not just a security issue but also about peacebuilding, human rights, and development.