In line with Nigeria’s strategic objectives to strengthen local defence industrialisation and increase the operational autonomy of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN), the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammad Matawalle, recently inspected locally manufactured combat vehicles at the Ministry of Defence in Abuja.
Dr. Matawalle expressed his satisfaction with the design, build quality, and tactical applicability of the vehicles, underscoring the significance of local manufacturing in national defence. The inspection was part of the Nigerian government’s broader efforts to support and promote indigenous defence manufacturers.
A statement from Ahmad Dan-Wudil, the Minister’s Personal Assistant for Media, highlighted the minister’s appreciation for Proforce Nigeria. The company’s innovative approach to defence manufacturing was praised as a key component in achieving the goals outlined in Nigeria’s Defence Industrial Policy (DIPN).
Dr. Matawalle emphasised the need for continuous support for local manufacturers, noting that Proforce Nigeria serves as a testament to the nation’s ability to meet the complex demands of national defence through homegrown technological solutions.
During the inspection, Dr. Matawalle was accompanied by Proforce Nigeria’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Ade Ogundeyin, who guided the minister through the company’s technical facilities, where advanced tactical and armoured vehicles are being designed and built.
A focal point of the inspection was the PF Hulk, a state-of-the-art 4×4 Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle, developed by Proforce Nigeria. Designed for high-threat combat environments, the PF Hulk offers exceptional protection against improvised explosive devices (IEDs), ballistic threats, and ambushes. The vehicle meets modern warfare’s evolving requirements, providing the Armed Forces with a robust and highly capable asset.
Powered by a YaMZ-536 turbocharged diesel engine, the PF Hulk delivers 360 horsepower, with options for either a 6-speed automatic or 5-speed mechanical transmission. With a gross vehicle weight of 14,500 kg, a ground clearance of 400 mm, and an operational range of up to 1,000 km, the vehicle offers unparalleled mobility and survivability.
The PF Hulk complies with international STANAG 4569 Level 3a/3b protection standards, and is designed to accommodate up to 10 fully equipped troops, ensuring both safety and tactical advantage during combat operations.
As West Africa’s pioneer in armoured vehicle production, Proforce Nigeria continues to enhance its contribution to Nigeria’s self-reliance in defence production. This marks a significant step towards technological independence and an increased capacity for the country to meet its national security needs.
The Federal Government, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, remains committed to supporting localised military production initiatives aimed at bolstering the operational readiness and technological autonomy of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
