Nigeria's Defence Industries Corporation (DICON) is now a major supplier of arms to various African countries, according to Defence Minister Bello Matawalle. Celebrating its 60th anniversary, DICON has expanded its capabilities to produce military vehicles and artillery, marking a shift toward self-reliance in defense production.
Bello Matawalle, Nigeria's Minister of State for Defence, revealed that numerous African countries are now procuring arms and ammunition from the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON). This announcement was made during DICON's 60th anniversary celebration and the inaugural Africa Defence Industries Conference held in Abuja.
Founded in 1964, DICON was established to bolster national security by decreasing reliance on foreign arms. Despite encountering various challenges over the years, DICON has expanded its production capabilities significantly. Matawalle highlighted the corporation’s growth from initially producing small arms and ammunition to now manufacturing military vehicles, artillery, and other defense equipment. This progress underscores Nigeria's commitment to achieving self-reliance in defense production.
Matawalle emphasized that DICON's advancements have made it a significant player in the global arms market, with several African nations now seeking its products. This shift marks a substantial development in the continent’s arms procurement landscape.
Ibrahim Kana, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Defence, supported Matawalle’s statement, noting that it has become mandatory for Nigerian security agencies to source their arms and ammunition from DICON. He further assured that within the next two years, Nigeria will cease importing certain types of ammunition, including the 7.62mm calibre. Kana also highlighted the Public Procurement Act, which prioritizes local production and mandates government agencies to source arms domestically before considering imports.
This policy shift aims to enhance Nigeria's local defense industry and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers.
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