The Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria is leading the charge towards self-sufficiency in military hardware production, with the support of the new DICON Act 2023.
This development is expected to boost Nigeria’s national security and economic growth.
The Defence Minister, Dr. Bello Matawalle, on Monday hinted that DICON has made significant strides in collaborating with indigenous companies to achieve excellence in military manufacturing.
The corporation has expanded its capabilities to produce military vehicles, artillery, and other defence equipment, according to TheNation.
The new DICON Act 2023 aims to increase foreign exchange earnings, create jobs for skilled Nigerians, and reduce capital flight by promoting local production of defence equipment.
This milestone marks a significant step towards reducing Nigeria’s reliance on foreign nations for military hardware.
As DICON celebrates its 60th anniversary, the Minister has invited innovators, startups, and research institutions to present cutting-edge solutions to enhance national and regional security through the Defence Innovation Challenge.
The celebrations, which began on August 9, will herald a new era for DICON as a Military Industrial Complex.
“The ADIC which will hold between Wednesday and Thursday at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre, Abuja will also share insights, and explore the future frontiers of defence technology in Africa.
“The theme, DICON @ 60: Future Frontiers in Africa’s Defence Technology,” underscores our commitment to advancing defence capabilities through strategic partnerships, innovation, and technological advancements.
Matawalle noted that the new DICON Act 2023 had the potential to significantly contribute to Nigeria’s national development and national security by boosting foreign exchange earnings through local production of defence equipment.
He said that the Act also had the potential of creating jobs for skilled Nigerians, as well as reducing capital flight to foreign nations.
“DICON was established in 1964 and it has 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,’’ he said.
The minister added that DICON’s journey began with a modest start, focusing on the production of small arms and ammunition.
He said that over the years, the corporation expanded its capabilities, venturing into the manufacture of military vehicles, artillery, and other defence equipment.
“In spite of facing challenges, DICON persevered, driven by its commitment to self-reliance and national security.
”We therefore invite innovators, startups, and research institutions to present their cutting-edge solutions that can enhance national and regional security through the Defence Innovation Challenge.
”These celebrations, which commenced on Aug. 9, will herald a new era for DICON as a Military Industrial Complex, following the assent to the new DICON Act by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on Nov. 23, 2023.
“We extend a warm invitation to all stakeholders, partners, and the public to join us in celebrating this momentous occasion,’’ Matawalle added
