The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, on Monday said the Defence Industry Corporation of Nigeria has the capacity to produce the arms and ammunition for the security operatives in the country and beyond.
According to him, many African countries are now procuring arms and ammunition from DICON.
DICON, established in 1964 to bolster national security through the production of weapons, was intended to reduce reliance on foreign arms.
However, the country has continued to depend on foreign suppliers for the weapons used in ongoing efforts against terrorism, banditry, and other security challenges.
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 ammunitions.”
The minister who recalled that DICON started with the production of small arms, noted that the company had evolved over the years.
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.
“The Public Procurement Act also supports local production, not only military-industrial companies but any goods that are produced in Nigeria, all procuring entities in the country have been mandated to put it as a first line before importation,”
He said the Federal Government had mandated all agencies to first procure arms from DICON to boost local production.
Kana added that any MDA that wants to procure arms now must seek clearance from the ministry and would only be allowed to procure abroad if such is not produced by DICON.