As the Defence Industries Corporation, DICON, marks 60-years of existence, the Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Matawalle says “the new DICON Act 2023 has the potential to significantly contribute to Nigeria’s national development and security by boosting foreign exchange earnings through local production of defence equipment thereby creating jobs and reducing capital flight to foreign nations”.
Dr. Matawalle who was speaking at a Press Briefing heralding the celebration at the Headquarters Ministry of Defence in Abuja, highlighted the critical role DICON has played in Nigeria’s defence sector, collaborating with indigenous companies to achieve excellence in military manufacturing.
The Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria’s (DICON) 60th Anniversary according to the Minister, will be held alongside the launch of the Maiden Africa Defence Industries Conference (ADIC) in Abuja between August 14-15, 2024.
The Conference serves as a premier platform for industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders to collaborate, share insights, and explore the future frontiers of defence technology in Africa.
The event with the theme, “DICON @ 60: Future Frontiers in Africa’s Defence Technology,” marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s journey to innovation, resilience, and dedication to the defence needs of the nation, stated Dr. Matawalle.
“DICON’s journey began with a modest start, focusing on the production of small arms and ammunition. Over the years, the corporation expanded its capabilities, venturing into the manufacture of military vehicles, artillery, and other defence equipment.”
The Permanent Secretary Ministry of Defence, Dr Ibrahim Kana while making some clarifications stated that every Ministry must seek clearance from the Ministry of Defence to sign any Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that has to do with the production of small arms and light weapons in Nigeria.
This according to him, is to ensure that local manufacturers who will be leading the production of the Defence needs of the country reap the benefits of their investments.
The Director General DICON, Major General Aniedi Edet said the 60th celebration and the Maiden Africa Defence Industries Conference will give a platform to youth and young inventors to showcase their inventions. He stressed that a range of the equipments currently being used by the personnel are being manufactured by DICON.
