Many African nations are now turning to Nigeria to produce high-tech military hardware, says the Federal Government.
The weapons produced by the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), according to Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, show the seriousness of the Ministry of Defence and the new DICON management under the Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration.
Matawalle added that the patronage by African countries was capable of “boosting foreign exchange earnings ‘’ by the country, creating jobs for skilled Nigerians and reducing capital flight.
The minister also told reporters at a news conference to herald NICON’s 60th anniversary, that over 150 other foreign nationals would exhibit their capability and capacity during the maiden Africa Defence Industries Conference and Exhibition in Abuja.
The exhibition which begins tomorrow will end on Thursday.
Matawalle said: “ We want to change the narrative of DICON. Many people have been asking me at 60 years old, what has DICON done? What are we doing? That we are buying foreign equipment, foreign ammunition, and other armaments that DICON cannot yet produce.
“But when we assumed the mantle of the leadership of the Ministry of Defence, we have been going up and down to ensure that DICON stands on its feet and to ensure the capacity and the capability of DICON so that we can be able to produce our own armaments; so that we can bring more investors, particularly the indigenous investors so that we should give them the right to do as it is happening around the world.
“Now, most of the countries, not just the government, are partnering with this Indigenous defence industry for the production of high-tech military hardware.
Nigeria will soon become self-sufficient in military hardware production – Matawalle
“Therefore, DICON is entirely a new DICON, and we assure you within a short time you will see the capability of DICON, and what it can be able to produce.
“We cannot be able to inform the public everything about our capability or capacity for security reasons. But we assure you that we have the capacity, we have the capability to produce and as you know, many countries, many African countries now are coming to DICON for the procurement of their arms and ammunition.”
The minister said the new DICON Act 2023 has the potential to significantly contribute to Nigeria’s development and national security.
The minister said since the establishment of DICON in 1964, the corporation has played a significant role in Nigeria’s defence sector, “collaborating with Indigenous companies to achieve excellence in military manufacturing.”
He added: “DICON’s journey began with a modest start, focusing on the production of small arms and ammunition. Over the years, the corporation 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.
“This 60th anniversary marks a significant milestone in our journey of innovation, resilience, and dedication to the defence needs of our nation. Today, DICON is celebrating 60 years of dedicated service in the production and repair of military hardware and equipment.”
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