Nigeria becomes first African country to ratify arms trade treaty

Nigeria has become the first Africa country to sign and ratify the
Arms Trade Treaty(ATT), the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Olugbenga
Ashiru, has disclosed.
"Nigeria becomes the first African country to sign and ratify the Arms
Trade Treaty (ATT).
"This landmark event represents our deep commitment to a treaty which
establishes common international standards for the import, export and
transfer of conventional arms.
"We remain resolute and unyielding in our efforts to uphold the
principle of ATT and, in particular, ensure that small arms and light
weapons are appropriately transferred and access denied to terrorist
groups, pirates, bandits and the like," Mr. Ashiru said while signing
the treaty.
He noted that Nigeria co-sponsored the treaty and coordinated the
African group throughout the process of negotiation of the treaty.
According to the minister, the adoption of the treaty was a
realisation of efforts that started in 2006, following the adoption of
the United Nationsresolution 61/89.
Mr. Ashiru explained that the resolution recommended the establishment
of common international standards for the import, export and transfer
of conventional arms.
The spokesperson for Control Arms, Anna Macdonald, in her remarks at
the event, noted that throughout the negotiations on the ATT, Nigeria
was a leader for the African continent.
"We are proud of Nigeria's leadership again today as Foreign Minister
Olugbenga Ashiru simultaneously signs and ratifies this first ever
global agreement regulating the transfer of arms and ammunition.
"Africa has long suffered the impact of an arms trade that is out of
control. From Somalia to Mali to the DRC, weapons have been entering
conflict zones and increasing the level of violence for decades.
"Other African countries must now step forward and follow Nigeria's
lead. The continent needs an ATT that is in effect and implemented as
soon as possible.
"With over 80 countries' signatures and several ratifications since
the treaty opened for signature, there is momentum to urgently ensure
the ATT becomes international law and starts saving lives.
"Fifty ratifications are needed for the treaty to enter into force,
and we call on all states to get to work on their national legislation
as soon as possible," she said.
(NAN)