By Sumaila Ogbaje
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, says the Federal Government of Nigeria is committed to reducing its dependence on foreign arms procurement and enhancing Nigeria’s defence industrial base.
Musa stated this during the inauguration of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) and D7G Nigeria Limited (DICON/D7G) Board on Wednesday in Abuja.
He said Nigeria had remained committed to strengthening its defence capabilities to ensure that its gallant men and women in uniform had access to high-quality, locally manufactured military equipment, ammunition, and other operational assets.
According to him, the establishment of strategic partnership between DICON and D7G Nigeria Limited, represents a bold step towards actualising the vision.
The CDS said the inauguration of the board was sequel to the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which established a joint venture company of DICON and D7G Board of Nigeria Limited.
He said the joint venture was for the production of military hardware and equipment for the armed forces, as well as for intelligence, security, and paramilitary organisations.
“This inauguration marks yet another milestone in our collective pursuit of national security, self-reliance, and industrial development.
“The armed forces, alongside our intelligence and security agencies, operate in a dynamic and evolving threat environment.
“This requires not just superior strategy and professionalism but also robust indigenous capacity to develop and sustain critical defence assets.
“The partnership we celebrate today is a testament to our resolve to build a resilient defence manufacturing sector that will meet the immediate and future needs of our military and security institutions,” he said.
