Maryam Aminu
As Nigeria celebrates DICON’s 60 years of service, the vision laid out today sets the stage for a future where the country’s defence industry plays a pivotal role in both national security and economic development.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to national security and technological advancement by unveiling a comprehensive strategy for Nigeria’s defence sector.
This announcement was made during the 60th-anniversary celebration of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) and the inaugural Africa Defence Industries Conference, held today in Abuja.
In his keynote address, President Tinubu who was represented by the Secretary to the Government of Federation, SGF, Senator George Akume
hailed DICON’s six-decade legacy of resilience and innovation.
Established in 1964, DICON has grown into a cornerstone of Nigeria’s military-industrial complex, producing essential ammunition and equipment for the country’s armed forces.
The President emphasized that DICON’s contributions during the Nigerian Civil War were pivotal in maintaining the nation’s unity, underscoring the corporation’s critical role in Nigeria’s defence history.
Tinubu further announced the signing of the DICON Act 2023, which he described as a milestone that creates the right environment for the corporation to modernize and expand its production capabilities.
“The newly automated production lines for various categories of ammunition, Mine Resistant Ambush Patrol Vehicles, Armoured Personnel Carrier, drones, and unmanned ground vehicles, for instance, will provide our armed forces with advanced equipment tailored to our contemporary challenges providing our troops with the required advantage over our adversaries.” Said Tinubu
He expressed that Introducing the BAT A-1 Specialised Assault Rifle and its production line will address small arms proliferation issues while equipping our security operatives with modern fighting capabilities.
“The proposed state-of-the-art micro motherboard processing facility will be the backbone of robotics and artificial intelligence innovations, leveraging resources from our newly inaugurated lithium development plant in Nasarawa State.
“Expanding our production capabilities and enhancing our research and development efforts will create jobs, develop human capital, and stimulate economic growth.
“Establishing a tech hub and R&D lab in Abuja will provide the enabling environment and attract young talent to foster a culture of Innovation, driving Nigeria’s defence industry forward”.
“We are on course to leap forward in Nigeria’s defence capabilities. These developments would bolster the nation’s efforts to combat terrorism, banditry, and other security challenges.” He said
The event also marked the launch of DICON’s Vision and Strategy Road Map 2030, which aligns with the President’s “Renewed Hope Agenda.” This strategic plan is designed to position DICON as a leader in defence innovation across Africa, driving economic diversification through industrialization, digitization, and manufacturing.
The roadmap sets clear objectives to enhance national security and promote sustainable development.
Speaking earlier, the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Matawalle who delivered the opening remarks, lauded the DICON Act 2023 as a transformative legal framework that empowers the corporation to operate with greater autonomy and efficiency.
Matawalle also introduced the Defence Innovation Challenge, an initiative aimed at harnessing the talents of young Nigerians to advance national and regional security through innovative defence technologies.
The minister noted that over the past 60 years, DICON has made significant contributions to our nation’s defence architecture, providing the Nigerian Armed Forces with essential equipment and supporting the development of the military capabilities.
He expressed with delight the immense pride in this legacy of resilience and innovation.
Reacting to the recent enactment of the DICON Act 2023 by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Matawalle said it marks a turning point in the history of ths defence sector.
“This new legal framework empowers DICON to operate with greater autonomy and efficiency, enhancing its ability to meet the evolving defence needs of our nation.
“However, as we stand on the threshold of a new era, it is clear that the future holds even greater opportunities for growth and transformation of indigenous production in Nigeria.”
Speaking also, the Chief of Defence Staff, CDS, General Christopher Gwabin Musa said DICON has played their part in safeguarding the nation’s security and sovereignty.
“Today, we celebrate its achievements and look ahead to a future filled with even greater promise and potential,” the CDS said.
“As African nations continue to confront threats to peace and stability, it is essential that we work together to enhance our defence capabilities and foster regional cooperation.he noted.
”As we reflect on the security challenges grappling our respective nations today, there is a growing imperative to fully develop our indigenous production capacities, and strengthen our military industrial complex”he said.
In his address, the Director-General of DICON, Major General Aniedi Edet commended President Tinubu for the supportive roles being extended to the Corporation since assumption of office
Edet highlighted the corporation’s evolution from its early focus on small arms and ammunition production to its current diverse portfolio, which now includes ventures into civilian applications.
He expressed optimism about the future, citing the strategic partnerships and innovations that will drive DICON’s growth.
“DICON at 60 is more than a celebration; it is a call to action,” the Director-General said, urging stakeholders to collaborate in building a self-reliant defence sector.
Reacting to the theme of the conference “Future Frontiers in Africa’s Defence Technology”, the Director General said it challenges us to reflect on our collective journey, to innovate, and to strengthen the ties that bind us in our common pursuit of building a DICON that will guarantee self-sufficiency in the equipment needs of our Armed Forces, and other security agencies in Nigeria,”
Edet assured that the corporation would live up to expectations of the Federal government
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