CDS Musa: Nigeria Must Prioritize Indigenous Military Production for Security

CDS Musa: Nigeria Must Prioritize Indigenous Military Production for Security

General Christopher Musa, Chief of Defence Staff, on Wednesday, highlighted the vital role of innovation and indigenous military production in enhancing Nigeria’s defence sector, urging a shift towards self-reliance for national security.

He spoke at the inaugural Africa Defence Technology Conference in Abuja, themed “Future Frontiers in Africa’s Defence Technology”.

The conference, in commemorate the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON)’s 60th anniversary, emphasized the importance of self-sufficiency in military production.

General Musa stressed that relying on indigenous talent and technology is vital to enhancing national security.

He expressed commitment to fostering a culture of innovation and production, leveraging Nigerian experts’ and industries’ capabilities.

“There is a need to invest more in homegrown solutions in Nigeria to strengthen our defence capabilities, ensuring a more secure future for the nation,” he said.

In his welcome address, the Director General of DICON, Maj. -Gen. Aniedi Edet, stressed the need for self-reliance and self-sufficiency in Nigeria’s military industrial complex.

He highlighted DICON’s evolution from producing small arms and ammunition to venturing into civilian applications and cutting-edge defence technologies.

He said the conference will utilize expert and stakeholder discussions to innovate and develop a corporate and strategic roadmap for DICON.

“The celebration showcased DICON’s commitment to pioneering defence technologies, investing in human resources, and building international partnerships to enhance Nigeria’s defence capabilities and contribute to regional security.

“As DICON looks to the future, it is clear that we are poised to play a pivotal role in shaping Africa’s defence landscape, with a renewed focus on innovation, collaboration, and technological advancement.

“The celebration acknowledged DICON’s contributions to Nigeria’s peace and security, from the civil war (1967-1970) to the COVID era, and honored the great men and women who have worked to keep DICON operational.

According to him, “At DICON, we are proud of our past but are relentlessly focused on our future. We are building a future where we continue to play a pivotal role in enhancing defence capabilities, not just for Nigeria but for Africa and beyond. We are committed to pushing the boundaries of technology and collaboration to ensure collective security and prosperity.”

“DICON is set to make significant strides in enhancing national and regional security. The 60th-anniversary celebration marks a new chapter in DICON’s history, promising exciting developments and achievements.”