The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, stated on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Friday that Nigeria is poised to become a global superpower in military equipment production within a few years.
He attributed this progress to the recent signing of the DICON Bill, which ensures sustainability in defence manufacturing. “With the signing of the DICON Bill, we are bringing in partners, and I can assure you that in a few years, Nigeria will produce its own advanced military equipment,” General Musa said.
The Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) once produced weapons locally but experienced setbacks over the years. However, production has now resumed, focusing on small-calibre ammunition like 7.62mm and 9mm rounds, with plans to expand into higher calibres.
General Musa cited Brazil’s defence manufacturing as a benchmark, noting that while Nigeria and Brazil began similar endeavours 60 years ago, Brazil has advanced significantly, producing unmanned aircraft and submarines. “We want to achieve such milestones,” he said.
He highlighted the economic benefits of local production, including job creation for youths, foreign exchange savings, and opportunities to sell equipment to neighbouring countries, generating revenue for the military.
Regarding security operations, General Musa welcomed the High Court’s recent proscription of the Lakurawa sect as a terrorist organisation. This move, he explained, provides the military with the legal framework to deploy advanced weaponry like the Super Tucano aircraft against the group.
