Revolutionizing Nigeria's Defence: Local Manufacturers Propel Nation Towards Self-Reliance in Security. (Photo/NAN).
(EPICSTORIAN) – The Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), established in 1964, is spearheading the nation’s push toward self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
With a government-mandated goal to achieve 40% local production by 2027, DICON’s recent developments highlight Nigeria’s commitment to reducing dependence on foreign defence imports.
Local players like E-PAIL Nigeria and Proforce Nigeria Limited are pivotal in this transformation. E-PAIL’s delivery of 20 advanced Light Tactical Armoured Vehicles (LTAVs) this year demonstrates the growing capability of indigenous firms.
According to Kola Balogun, Chairman of E-PAIL, these vehicles, equipped with sophisticated weaponry and communication systems, are a testament to the nation’s potential to domesticate global standards for local security challenges.
Proforce Nigeria’s contributions further hint the private sector’s significant role. The firm’s production of PF ARA Mine-Resistant Ambush-Protected (MRAP) vehicles and PF VIPERs has significantly supported military efforts against terrorism.
Business Development Manager Kayode Nariwo noted that these platforms, deployed across conflict zones, offer reliable after-sales support, unlike imported alternatives.
Dr. Bello Matawalle, Minister of State for Defence, recently presided over DICON’s inaugural board meeting, signaling the government’s intensified focus on local defence production. Matawalle emphasized partnerships with indigenous industries as critical to achieving self-sufficiency and boosting employment.
However , barring these strides, challenges such as high production costs, infrastructure gaps, and limited military trust in local solutions persist.
Experts urge the government to streamline processes, enhance steel industry support, and foster international technology transfer partnerships to sustain momentum in the Nigeria’s defence sector.
DICON Act 2023 and Nigeria’s Defence Revolution
The enactment of the DICON Act 2023 marks a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s defence manufacturing sector. Signed into law by President Bola Tinubu, the legislation aims to modernize and expand DICON’s operations, aligning with the nation’s vision of reducing reliance on foreign arms imports.
During the inaugural board meeting of DICON, as reported by NAN, Dr. Bello Matawalle underscored the corporation’s vital role in bolstering national security. He emphasized collaboration with local industries to create jobs and enhance defence capabilities. This approach aligns with Executive Order 5, which prioritizes local content in public procurement.
Local defence manufacturers like E-PAIL Nigeria and Proforce Nigeria Limited are already capitalizing on the new law. E-PAIL’s Kola Balogun highlighted that their innovative products address Nigeria’s unique security dynamics, while Proforce’s Kayode Nariwo noted the advantages of local production, including quicker maintenance and availability of spare parts.
The DICON Act not only offers a framework for growth but also strengthens Nigeria’s military industrial complex. However, experts stress the need for the government to address systemic challenges, such as bureaucratic bottlenecks and the high cost of power, to fully realize the act’s potential.
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With the private sector’s contributions and government support, Nigeria is positioned to emerge as a leader in Africa’s defence manufacturing landscape, with potential export opportunities to neighboring countries.
