The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has stated that the expanded operations of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) will help reduce the country’s dependence on foreign sources for weapons.
It follows the recent assent by President Bola Tinubu to the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) Bill, 2023. The new law enables DICON to operate, maintain, and control subsidiaries and ordnance factories for the production, storage, and disposal of ordnance and related materials.
It also empowers the corporation to establish the Defence Industry Technology, Research, and Development Institute (DITRDI) to build a strong scientific and research-based technological foundation for Nigeria’s defence capabilities.
Speaking before the House of Representatives Committee on Defence to defend the 2025 budget, the Defence Chief highlighted the importance of boosting local weapons manufacturing.
He explained that reliance on international sources for weapons has proven challenging, particularly in light of global events such as the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, which has made international procurement even more difficult.
“We also need equipment,” he said. “We’ve tried to increase our local manufacturing capacity because we’ve realised that not producing what we need has made it very difficult. That’s one of the reasons why the conflict has dragged on for so long. We’ve had to rely on hard currency to purchase weapons abroad.
“When you go abroad to buy, it’s not like you can just pick up what you need off the shelf. Sometimes, you have to make payments in advance. With the Ukraine-Russia war, things have become even more difficult, as the US, in particular, is securing most of the supplies.
“So when you go, they tell you it’s already been booked. Getting these items has become a real problem. That’s why we recognise the need to start producing what we require locally,” he added.
Marwa further explained that, with the DICON bill signed into law, efforts are underway to encourage regional equipment manufacturers to set up operations in Nigeria. He highlighted that while several local weapons manufacturers have the talent, they often lack platforms to showcase their skills.
“We have identified people producing high-quality weapons, including automatic firearms, but they are local manufacturers with nowhere to display their talents,” he said.
“If they’re not engaged positively, there’s a risk they may turn to illegal activities to survive. So, we are working to bring them into the fold, providing the platform for them to produce weapons legally. Gradually, Nigeria can begin to produce its own weapons, reducing our reliance on foreign imports.”
General Musa also addressed security challenges in the South-East, noting that the arrest of Simon Ekpa had significantly reduced tension in the region. He mentioned that Operation Udoka is targeting key leadership figures and helping restore peace.
“The sit-at-home orders on Mondays are gradually diminishing,” he explained.
“We’re working with political leaders in the region because, as I always say, local support is crucial. The terrain is very challenging, so we must work together, and we’re seeing improvement.”
He added that the armed forces are committed to using both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches to address the security crisis in the region, which has produced positive results.
“We’ve gathered intelligence and taken proactive measures to ensure peace,” he said. “We intend to continue these efforts and do even more. We are focusing on joint operations and synergy.”
General Musa also appealed for Nigerians to take collective responsibility for security challenges, stressing that it is not solely the duty of the armed forces and security agencies.
“We encourage Nigerians to take ownership of their armed forces and the security challenges we face,” he said.
“It’s not just for the armed forces alone. We all have a role to play. We are glad to see increasing support from all sides. Human intelligence is flowing well, and we are acting on it. This is why we are seeing improvements in the situation.