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Nigeria has taken a significant step towards self-sufficiency in arms production, with Minister of State for Defence Bello Matawalle announcing on Monday that the Defence Industry Corporation of Nigeria has the capability to meet the weapons needs of the country’s security agencies and potentially supply other nations.
DICON’s expertise in arms production has garnered significant attention from across the continent, with many African countries now seeking to leverage Nigeria’s capabilities by purchasing arms and ammunition from the corporation, Minister Matawalle revealed.
Since its inception in 1964, the Defence Industry Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) has been driven by a singular mission: to fortify national security through self-sufficiency in weapons production, thereby minimizing the country’s dependence on foreign arms suppliers.
Nigeria’s ongoing struggles with terrorism, banditry, and other security challenges have underscored a persistent paradox: despite having a domestic arms manufacturer in DICON, the country continues to rely significantly on foreign suppliers for the weapons needed to combat these threats.
Speaking while briefing journalists on the 60th anniversary of DICON and the launch of the maiden Africa Defence Industries conference, Matawalle said, “But we assure you that we have the capacity, we can produce, and as you know, many countries, many African countries now are coming to DICON for the procurement of their arms and ammunition.”
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The minister noted that DICON has come a long way since its founding, progressing from the production of small arms to a more comprehensive portfolio of weapons and military equipment, demonstrating the corporation’s capacity for growth and development.
He said, “DICON’s journey began with a modest start, focusing on the production of small arms and ammunition. Over the years, DICON has expanded its capabilities, venturing into the manufacture of military vehicles, artillery, and other defence equipment.
“Despite facing challenges, DICON persevered, driven by its commitment to self-reliance and national security. DICON’s 60-year journey is a testament to Nigeria’s commitment to self-reliance in defence production.
“Through collaboration and innovation, the corporation has established itself as a key player in the defence sector. As DICON continues to evolve, its contributions will remain crucial to Nigeria’s national security and economic growth.”
The minister added that the new DICON Act would significantly contribute to national development.
He said, “The new DICON Act 2023 has the potential to significantly contribute to Nigeria’s national development and national security by boosting foreign exchange earnings through local production of defence equipment, creating jobs for skilled Nigerians and reducing capital flight to foreign nations.”
The minister called on innovators, startups, and research institutions to present their cutting-edge solutions that can enhance national and regional security through the Defence Innovation Challenge.
The Permanent Secretary Ministry of Defence, Abubakar Kana, said in the next two years, Nigeria would stop procuring 7.62mm ammunition from other countries.
“I can assure each and every one of us, in the next two years, Nigeria will not buy 7.62mm calibre ammunition again.
It was mentioned that the Public Procurement Act encourages the growth of local production, covering a wide range of sectors, including military-industrial companies, by instructing procuring entities to favor domestic suppliers and only consider importation as a last resort.
