The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, emphasized the Defence Industry Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) has the capability to produce arms and ammunition for security operatives both within Nigeria and across Africa. During a briefing to mark DICON’s 60th anniversary and the launch of the inaugural Africa Defence Industries Conference, Matawalle highlighted that several African nations are increasingly turning to DICON for their arms procurement needs.
Established in 1964, DICON was created to enhance national security through the domestic production of weaponry and reduce Nigeria’s reliance on foreign arms. Despite this objective, the country has continued to depend on international suppliers to equip its defense forces in the fight against terrorism, banditry, and other pressing security challenges.
Matawalle reassured journalists, stating, “We assure you that we have the capacity; we can produce. Many African countries are now coming to DICON for the procurement of their arms and ammunition.” He reflected on DICON’s evolution, noting that it initially focused on small arms production but has since expanded its capabilities to include military vehicles, artillery, and other defense equipment.
The minister acknowledged the challenges DICON has faced but reaffirmed the corporation’s commitment to self-reliance and national security, calling its 60-year journey a testament to Nigeria’s dedication to indigenous defense production. He also underscored that DICON’s ongoing innovations and collaborations position it as a vital contributor to both national security and economic growth.
Further emphasizing local production, Matawalle discussed the new DICON Act of 2023, which aims to significantly bolster Nigeria’s national development by fostering local defense manufacturing. He pointed out that this act has the potential to generate foreign exchange, create jobs for skilled Nigerians, and mitigate capital flight to foreign nations.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Abubakar Kana, added that Nigeria aims to cease importing 7.62mm ammunition within the next two years. He assured that all federal agencies are now mandated to prioritize procurement from DICON before considering foreign sources. Additionally, any Ministry, Department, or Agency (MDA) seeking to procure arms must first seek clearance from the Ministry of Defence, ensuring that local production is favored unless the required items are not available from DICON.
Matawalle also called on innovators, startups, and research institutions to contribute cutting-edge solutions that can enhance national and regional security through the Defence Innovation Challenge, reinforcing the government’s commitment to advancing domestic defense capabilities.
