African Leaders Should Focus On Implementing Arms Control Instruments – Buhari

President Muhammadu Buhari has come out to urge African leaders to promote the implementation of arms control instruments and embargoes, to complement and consolidate African Peace and Security Architecture.

He revealed this recently at the 14th extra-ordinary session of the Assembly of the African Union (AU) on “Silencing the Gun”, held virtually.

According to him, the increasing number of peace agreements and their ongoing operationalisation in conflict situations around the continent has demonstrated a resolve to chart a new course.

He added that threats of terrorist activities, other trans-organised crimes and external interference in the internal affairs of African States are increasing, and that is bad for the continent.

His words, “The major challenge for Africa today is achieving a new trajectory of peace, security, stability and a conflict-free Africa, following threats of terrorist activities and other crimes across the continent.”

“The reason the assembly is calling for endorsement for the extension period of the implementation of the AU master roadmap and amnesty month beyond 2020.

“There will be immediate need to have the monitoring and evaluation mechanism put in place to gauge the implementation at the continental level.

“We are beginning to equally see emerging intra/inter-state resurgence of conflicts in Africa, underscoring the imperative for the AU Mediation Support Unit to be strengthened.

“Our member states are ensuring inclusive democratic governance, constitutionalism and facilitating access for AU mediators when necessary will also complement these efforts.

“Threats of terrorist activities, other trans-organised crimes and external interference in the internal affairs of African States are increasing.

“We also see maritime security threats, including the proliferation of small arms and light weapons and the challenges of porous border are also visible.

“It is in this regard that we blame the slow implementation of the African Common Defence Policy, hinged on the establishment of the African Standby Force.”