Nigerian Army Inducts 15 Indigenous Vanquisher Armoured Vehicles
The Nigerian Army has taken delivery of 15 locally produced Vanquisher Light Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs), in a move aimed at strengthening operational capability and deepening the country’s push for indigenous defence technology.
The armoured vehicles were formally handed over on Tuesday, to underscored the Army’s commitment to self-reliance in military hardware production and enhanced combat readiness.
In a statement, the platforms were produced by the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) in collaboration with Vanquish Industries Limited and the Command Engineering Depot.
Speaking at the event, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shuaibu, reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s determination to promote indigenous military innovation as a strategic approach to addressing the country’s evolving security challenges.
The Army chief, represented by the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), Major General Bamidele Alabi, described the induction of the armoured vehicles as a significant milestone in Nigeria’s pursuit of self-sufficiency in defence production.
He noted that the development reflects the Army’s broader modernisation drive aimed at improving operational effectiveness in counter-insurgency and other security operations across the country.
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According to him, locally developed platforms such as the Vanquisher Light APC are designed to address the unique operational environment faced by Nigerian troops while strengthening the Army’s ability to respond swiftly to emerging threats.
COAS further emphasised that expanding local production of military hardware would reduce capital flight, stimulate the national economy and reposition the Armed Forces of Nigeria towards greater technological independence.
He described the induction of the vehicles as the beginning of a sustained effort to encourage the development and deployment of homegrown defence solutions.
Lieutenant General Shuaibu also urged the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria to sustain its momentum in research and development, stressing the need for the production of high-quality military equipment that meets global standards.
Earlier in his remarks, the Director-General of DICON, Major General B.I. Alaya, expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued support for the country’s military-industrial development.
He also commended the Chief of Army Staff for his consistent backing of indigenous defence initiatives, noting that the project would not have been possible without the Army’s commitment to local innovation.
Major General Alaya called on other security agencies and military services to emulate the Nigerian Army by prioritising locally manufactured defence equipment in order to accelerate Nigeria’s quest for a vibrant military-industrial base.
The induction of the Vanquisher Light APCs is expected to enhance the mobility, protection and operational capability of troops deployed in various theatres of operation across the country.
By PRNigeria
