Nigeria is set to join the league of countries that have ratified the Arms Trade Treaty, as the minister of trade and investment,Olugbenga Ashiru, is expected to sign and ratify the treaty at the UN Headquarters in New York this month.

The adoption of the treaty is a realisation of efforts that started in 2006 following the adoption of the UN resolution 61/89.

Nigeria not only co-sponsored the treaty but coordinated the African group throughout the process of negotiation.

The resolution recommended the establishment of common international standards for the import, export and transfer of conventional arms.

Members of the UN adopted the treaty on April 2, 2013 and it was made open for signatures on June 3, 2013. So far, 81 member countries have ratified the treaty.

The treaty stipulates the prevention/eradication of illicit arms as well as their diversion and would ensure the prohibition of illicit transfer of conventional arms within the African region.

It would also ensure the reduction in human suffering and contribute to regional peace, security and stability.

The ratification is expected to take place next Monday.