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By Kabir Abdulsalam
The Federal Government on Monday has called on local and international investors to partner with the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) to enhance domestic production of military arms and equipment.
Speaking at the 60th-anniversary celebration of DICON in Abuja, the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mattawalle emphasized the need for investment in the defence sector to reduce reliance on foreign imports.
The Minister highlighted the potential of the new DICON Act 2023 to attract investments, boost foreign exchange earnings, create jobs, and reduce capital flight.
“DICON’s 60-year journey demonstrates Nigeria’s commitment to self-reliance in defence production. We invite investors to collaborate with us to advance our defence capabilities and contribute to national security,” the Minister said.
He said the anniversary celebration coincides with the launch of the median Africa Defence Industries Conference (ADIC), to promote strategic partnerships, innovation, and technological advancements in defence production.
Matawalle encouraged innovators, startups, and research institutions to participate in the Defence Innovation Challenge, showcasing cutting-edge solutions to enhance national and regional security.
On his part, the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, revealed that the ministry would soon sign an MoU with the Ministry of Mining and Steel to revitalize production for military equipment.
Kana said the ministry’s permanent secretary, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana noted that the soonest the ministry will be ssigning an MoU with the Ministry of Mining and Steel to revatalised the section that will be use for production of military equipments.
“We are committed to reducing our dependence on foreign arms imports,” Dr. Kana emphasized, “You know most our Vehicles are products will steel this is why Akajuta steel is very important to our joutney,” he said.
“The President has mandated that any ministry, agency, or department of government using public funds to procure arms or ammunition must prioritize locally produced goods.”
He noted that this move will be supported by the Bureau of Public Procurement to boost local production, create jobs, and reduce reliance on importations. the Ministry of Defence is also collaborating with other government bodies to strengthen the country’s military-industrial complex.
“For companies producing in Nigeria, recent developments have solidified the importance of local manufacturing. The President has mandated that any ministry, agency, or department of government using public funds to procure arms or ammunition must prioritize locally produced goods. The Bureau of Public Procurement has been instructed not to issue ‘No Objection’ certificates to any entity that fails to meet this requirement. This initiative is a significant step towards boosting local production and self-sufficiency.
“This approach mirrors successful strategies from other countries, such as South Africa, where investment in the military-industrial complex has yielded substantial returns within a few years. In Nigeria, we are now entering into Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) to begin the production of small arms and ammunition domestically. I can confidently say that in the next two years, Nigeria will significantly reduce its dependence on foreign arms imports.
As for the military-industrial complex (MIC) in Nigeria, it is essential to understand that this initiative involves a collaboration of government organizations. We are focusing on increasing the procurement of locally produced goods. The Public Procurement Act supports this by giving priority to Nigerian-made products. This not only boosts our local economy but also creates jobs and reduces the strain on foreign exchange.
Regarding the progress of capital projects, The perm. Sec, said the Minister of Steel has been actively working towards the reactivation of key plants responsible for producing materials relevant to the MIC. For example, steel production, which is vital for military equipment like armored vehicles, is a priority. The Ministry of Defence is committed to ensuring that these materials are produced locally, reducing our reliance on imports.
According to him, Moreover, the Minister has encouraged Nigerian entrepreneurs to invest in these projects, ensuring that our country’s resources benefit our people first. This approach ensures that Nigerian companies are at the forefront of these developments, fostering a sense of ownership and national pride.
Looking ahead, we are also focusing on security. The reactivation of certain facilities will enhance our ability to secure the nation, especially in regions facing significant security challenges. This is not just about business; it’s about ensuring the safety and stability of Nigeria.
In conclusion, we are making significant strides in local production, self-sufficiency, and security. The government’s support has been instrumental in driving these initiatives, and we are confident that the future holds great potential for Nigeria’s military-industrial complex.
Adding to this, Major General Aniedi Edet, Director General of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), showcased the corporation’s expanded capabilities. He said: “Today, DICON is involved in producing a wide range of equipment for the military, from uniforms to advanced technology like unmanned ground vehicles, drones, and medium-caliber ammunition.”
His word: “This groundbreaking event, the first of its kind in Nigeria and much of Africa, is focused on harnessing and integrating innovative technological ideas. The conference aims to tap into the talent pool across Nigeria, particularly among the youth who are already making significant strides in the informal sector. With numerous global partners arriving, this platform will enable these young innovators to channel their creativity in the right direction and engage with emerging technologies.
Regarding DICON’s contributions to the armed forces, our mandate now extends beyond arms and ammunition. DICON is involved in producing a wide range of military equipment, from uniforms to advanced technology like unmanned ground vehicles, drones, and medium-caliber ammunition. We have already begun supplying these products and are continuously expanding our capabilities to meet the needs of our armed forces.
Reflecting on the last six years, DICON has much to celebrate. Established in 1964, DICON has played a critical role in supporting Nigeria’s defense efforts, especially following the Civil War. We are celebrating our ongoing fulfillment of the mandate to ensure self-sufficiency in military equipment, as well as the new opportunities created by recent legislation signed by the President. This new act has opened up significant potential for DICON, fostering strategic partnerships that are essential for our continued growth.’
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