The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, revealed the success of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) as many African countries currently rely on Nigeria for their arms and ammunition.... CLICK TO READ THE FULL NEWS HERE▶▶
Matawalle made this statement in Abuja during the 60th anniversary celebration of DICON and the launch of the maiden Africa Defence Industries Conference.
DICON has significantly grown its capabilities since its establishment in 1964 to boost national security and reduce reliance on foreign arms.
The industry can now possesses the capability to produce military vehicles, artillery, and other defense equipment.
“Many African countries are now coming to DICON for the procurement of arms and ammunition,” he said. “DICON’s journey began with a modest start, focusing on the production of small arms and ammunition.”
Matawalle continued. “Over the years, DICON has 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 Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Defence, Ibrahim Kana, mentioned that it has become mandatory for all security agencies to source their arms and ammunition from DICON.
He also assured that Nigerian will soon stop purchasing 7.62mm calibre ammunition from foreign countries.
“I can assure each and every one of us, in the next two years, Nigeria will not buy 7.62mm calibre ammunition again.
The law now makes it mandatory for us in the Ministry of Defence, the National Security Adviser’s office, Ministry of Interior, Police Affairs, and all other security organizations in Nigeria… if you are procuring any arms or ammunition using government funds, you have no right to go and procure abroad unless we did not have any money in Nigeria,” Kana said.
