Why I Signed DICON Act – Tinubu
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on Wednesday, has revealed that his passion for Nigeria’s military industrial growth motivated him to sign the DICON Act 2023 into law.
He stated that the law aims to transform the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) into a global player.
Speaking at the inaugural Africa Defence Industries Conference, commemoration of DICON’s 60th anniversary, Tinubu emphasized the significance of Nigeria’s self-reliance in defence capabilities.
He said that signing the law barely six months into his tenure would position DICON as the arrowhead of the Military Industrial Complex.
According to him, “National security remains a top priority of my administration… The DICON Act 2023 marks a new era, positioning DICON as the arrowhead of our Military Industrial Complex.”
Represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, in Abuja, Tinubu highlighted DICON’s achievements, including its contribution to Nigeria’s unity during the civil war and its potential as a leading defence manufacturer in Africa.
He also unveiled the DICON Evolution Strategy and Road Map 2030 to bridge performance gaps and reposition DICON globally.
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The President announced substantial investments in DICON, focusing on industrialization, innovation, and modernization.
He showcased upcoming projects, including automated production lines, advanced equipment, and a state-of-the-art micro motherboard processing facility.
Tinubu urged international collaboration, inviting partners to join Nigeria in building a safer Africa.
“Let us seize this moment to build a stronger, more innovative, and globally competitive defence industry… We will secure Nigeria’s brighter future and contribute to global peace and stability and.”
Responding, the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, noted that the newly signed DICON Act is a roadmap for the Federal Government to explore self-reliance in defence military hardware production.
The Minister stated that the ministry has launched the Defence Innovation Challenge to harness Nigeria’s young talents and encourage groundbreaking defence innovations.
He said the ministry will partner with Kryterion Limited and DICON to provide a platform for young innovators, startups, and research institutions to showcase cutting-edge solutions that enhance national and regional security, with the goal of stimulating and rewarding innovative ideas.
By PRNigeria
