The Nigerian military has started manufacturing key defense equipment locally, including Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs), bulletproof glass, spare parts, and surveillance drones, Defence Minister Mohammed Badaru Abubakar announced on Wednesday.
During a two-day visit to military institutions in Kaduna State, including the Nigerian Defence Academy and Army Command Engineering Depot, Badaru observed significant progress in training, refurbishment, and local production of military assets. He highlighted the development of new combat platforms such as Buffalo APCs and Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected vehicles (MRAPs), some of which are already deployed in operational areas.
“The ongoing efforts in training, local production, and refurbishment of military assets are commendable,” Badaru said. “We are witnessing impressive capabilities in repairing and producing essential military equipment that will reduce our reliance on imports.”
The Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) Bill, signed into law in November 2023, plays a pivotal role in this initiative by empowering DICON to oversee ordnance factories and establish a Defence Industry Technology, Research, and Development Institute. This institute aims to drive innovation and commercialization of military technology within Nigeria.
Badaru also noted ongoing talks to strengthen collaboration between DICON, the Ministry of Defence, and Ajaokuta Steel Company to secure raw materials locally, although steel imports remain necessary for now.
