The Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle has encouraged “innovators, startups, and research institutions to present their cutting-edge solutions that can enhance national and regional security through the Defence Innovation Challenge,” adding that government is committed to repositioning the nation for paradigm shift in the production of armaments and military hardware.
The minister, who made the call at a media briefing to commemorate the 60th Anniversary of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), in Abuja, on Monday, said defense equipment showcasing military capability from over one hundred and fifty foreign nationals will be on display at the event to commemorate the Anniversary, adding that government will collaborate with indigenous investors to produce hard tech military hardware.
“When we assumed the mantle of leadership, we began to put in place strategic policies to strengthen the capacity of DICON for production of military equipment, ammunitions, and armaments for defense of the nation,” the minister said, adding that the commitment enabled DICON to evolve into a more efficient establishment.
He expressed optimism that Nigeria would be able to attain self-sufficiency in the production of military equipment and armaments, adding that the government will collaborate with the private sector to actualize the goal.
“We will give indigenous investors the opportunity to collaborate with the government for the production of military hardware and armaments as is done in some other parts of the world,” he said.
While saying that the 60th Anniversary of DICON will be celebrated alongside the launch of the Maiden Africa Defence Industries Conference (ADIC), he said the landmark events will take place in Abuja from August 14 to 15, 2024, at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre, Abuja.
He explained that the theme of the anniversary celebration, “DICON At 60: Future Frontiers in Africa’s Defence Technology,” underscores the commitment of the government to advancing defence capabilities through strategic partnerships, innovation, and technological advancements.
The minister commended President Bola Tinubu for giving assent to the new DICON Act 2023, adding that it has the potential to significantly contribute to Nigeria’s national development and security by boosting foreign exchange earnings through local production of defence equipment.
According to the minister, the new DICON Act will also create jobs for skilled Nigerians while reducing capital flight to foreign nations.
Discussing the trajectory of DICON, the minister recalled that it was established in 1964 and has since been at the forefront of Nigeria’s defence manufacturing, contributing significantly to national security and technological advancement.
“This 60th anniversary marks a significant milestone in our journey of innovation, resilience, and dedication to the defence needs of our nation,” he stated.
“Today, DICON is celebrating 60 years of dedicated service in the production and repair of military hardware and equipment. Since its establishment, DICON has played a crucial role in Nigeria’s defence sector, collaborating with indigenous companies to achieve excellence in military manufacturing.”
“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.”
He described DICON’s 60-year journey as a “testament to Nigeria’s commitment to self-reliance in defence production,” saying that 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,” he added.
Matawalle said the highlights of the commemorative event will include a series of activities designed to commemorate the milestone, taking place in both Kaduna and Abuja beginning from 9 through 15th of August 2024.
He said the supporting events include exhibition/virtual tour of DICON and the launch of the new DICON Strategy and Brand Identity at Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre, Abuja on Wednesday, 14th August 2024.
Activities for the closing ceremony would include a book launch, and commemoration of DICON’s past Board Chairman and Directors General on Thursday, 15th August 2024 at 6:00 pm.
Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana said the new DICON Act provides a veritable platform for the Corporation to collaborate with other indigenous companies for production of military hardware. He said as part of the provisions of the new DICON Act, the Ministry of Defense and other security agencies must prioritize the procurement of military equipment from indigenous companies over foreign companies.
Dr. Kana said: “The law makes it mandatory for the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Ministries of Defense, Interior, Police Affairs and other security organizations in Nigeria to procure military hardware from indigenous producers before the foreign producers are considered,” adding that any agency of government that wishes to procure equipment must seek clearance from the Ministry of Defense in order to ensure compliance with the news DICON Act.
Director-General of DICON, Major General A. E. Edet discussed the significance of the Maiden Africa Defence Industries Conference (ADIC) and its relevance to DICON, saying: “When you want to build a strong industrial complex, you must begin by innovating ideas,” adding that the conference, which is the first of its kind in Africa, will serve as platform to harness the innovative power of youth.
Edet, who said participants are already arriving Abuja for the ADIC conference, said DICON has attracted development partners from many parts of the world.
He said the mandate of DICON is to produce everything that is being used by the military. “DICON started by producing arms and ammunition, but as of today, we have ventured into many areas. When you look at a typical soldier from head to toe, DICON is producing everything you see on the soldier,” he said.
The Director General said DICON is already innovating to begin the production of unarmed ground vehicles and drones, and ammunition, adding that until recently, the Corporation was limited to the production of some kind of ordinary ammunition, but it has broken the jinx and is currently producing major ammunitions used widely by the Nigerian armed forces and some other security agencies.
