The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, announced on Monday that the Defence Industry Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) has the capacity to produce arms and ammunition for Nigeria’s security forces and other African nations
He emphasised that several African countries are now procuring their arms and ammunition from DICON, showcasing the corporation’s growing influence in the continent’s defence sector.
Speaking during a press briefing to mark DICON’s 60th anniversary and to launch the maiden Africa Defence Industries conference, Matawalle assured, “We have the capacity, we can produce, and as you know, many African countries are now coming to DICON for the procurement of their arms and ammunition.”
DICON was established in 1964 to enhance national security by reducing the country’s dependence on foreign arms through local production.
Despite this, Nigeria has continued to rely heavily on foreign suppliers for the weapons used in the fight against terrorism, banditry, and other security challenges.
However, Matawalle highlighted DICON’s evolution over the years, stating, “DICON’s journey began with a modest start, focusing on the production of small arms and ammunition.
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