DICON at 60: Nigeria is working to advance defence capabilities through strategic partnerships – Matawalle

Minister of State for Defence, Mohammed Bello Matawalle said, Nigeria is working to advance its defence capabilities through strategic partnerships, innovation and technological advancements that matches up with today’s realities.

He spoke at a press conference in Abuja on Monday to mark the 60th anniversary celebration of Defene Industries Corporation of Nigeria, DICON, stating that the new DICON Act 2023 has the potential to significantly contribute to Nigeria’s national development and national security by bosting foreign exchange earnings through local production of defence equipment.

The Minister stressed that the Ministry of Defence has the nod of President Bola Tinubu to strengthen DICON alongside other coordinate agencies to realize mandate of hardware and equipment production as well as creating jobs for skilled Nigerians.

With these, he emphasized, will reduce capital flight to foreign nations, even as DICON is set to lead future frontiers in Africa in defence technology and innovations.

He said, DICON which was established 60 years ago has been in the forefront of contributing to national development through manufacturing of defence equipment significantly, adding that the celebration of existence of the agency is an expression of its journey of innovation, resilience and dedication to the protective ideals of the nation.

Matawalle said: “The DICON 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.

“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.

“The 60-year journey is a testament to Nigeria’s commitment to self-reliance in defence production. 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.”

The Minister further revealed that many African countries are now coming to DICON to procure their military and paramilitary hardware, a development he said, was good for the nation and demonstration of how advance DICON was becoming.

Reacting to questions from journalists on collaboration with other agencies of government, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Defence, Dr Ibrahim Abubakar Kana said, DICON Act provided a veritable platform for it to partner with other agencies of government to ensure local production.

“The Act further strengthens relation between DICON and many other agencies, especially Ministry of Defence and many other agencies to first procure from indigenous companies producing in Nigeria before going abroad.

“Therefore the law makes it mandatory for the Ministry of Defence, National Security Adviser’s office, Ministry of Interior, Police Affairs and all other security organisations in Nigeria that if you are procuring arms and ammunition, using government funds, you have no right to procure them from abroad, unless there are not available in Nigeria.”

On his part, the Director General of Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria, Major-General Aniedi Effiong revealed that the agency was working to achieve production of complete armament and uniforms. He said, everything a soldiers wears and carries should be products of DICON, even as he commended the Ministry and President Bola Tinubu for their cooperations.