August 13, 2024.
By Samuel Ogunsona
The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has disclosed that the country is now selling arms to other nations.
Bello revealed this at the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja, on Monday, August 12, while addressing journalists on the activities lined up for the 60th DICON anniversary and the launch of the maiden edition of the Africa Defence Industries conference.
He said the patronage by other Africa countries is capable of “boosting foreign exchange earnings”
“ We want to change the narrative of DICON. Many people have been asking me at 60 years old, what has DICON done? What are we doing? That we are buying foreign equipment, foreign ammunition, and other armaments that DICON cannot yet produce.
“But when we assumed the mantle of the leadership of the Ministry of Defence, we have been going up and down to ensure that DICON stands on its feet and to ensure the capacity and the capability of DICON so that we can be able to produce our own armaments; so that we can bring more investors, particularly the indigenous investors so that we should give them the right to do as it is happening around the world.
“Now, most of the countries, not just the government, are partnering with this Indigenous defence industry for the production of high-tech military hardware.
“Therefore, DICON is entirely a new DICON, and we assure you within a short time you will see the capability of DICON, and what it can be able to produce.” He said.
According to the Defence Minister, Nigeria’s arms exports have been on the rise, with several African countries seeking to acquire military equipment and hardware from the country. The Minister attributed this growth to Nigeria’s investments in its defence industry, particularly in the production of weapons and military vehicles.
He added that Nigeria defence industry has made significant strides.
He said, “We cannot be able to inform the public everything about our capability or capacity for security reasons. But we assure you that we have the capacity, we have the capability to produce and as you know, many countries, many African countries now are coming to DICON for the procurement of their arms and ammunition.
“DICON’s 60-year journey is a testament to Nigeria’s commitment to self-reliance in defence production. Through collaboration and innovation, the corporation has established itself as a key player in the defence sector. As DICON continues to evolve, its contributions will remain crucial to Nigeria’s national security and economic growth.
“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.” He stated.
