FG prioritising equipment needs of military, says Defence Minister

The Minister of Defence, Alhaji Mohammed Abubakar, has reiterated the commitment of the Federal Government to continue to prioritise the welfare, training, and equipment needs of its troops to maintain their operational readiness and efficiency.

Abubakar, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr Abubakar Kana, said this while briefing newsmen on the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Celebration on Wednesday in Abuja.

He said that the government was also looking forward to adopting a proactive approach to combating the security challenges by harnessing its intelligence resources and having stronger partnerships with its West African neighbours.

He assured the military that government would also continue to equip the services with combat capabilities, training and equipment with a view to reducing to the barest minimum, causalities due to operations.

“Indeed, the untapped potential of our domestic defence industry is quite immense, and the ministry is dedicated to revitalising this sector to meet the needs of our armed forces,” he said.

The minister said the signing into law of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) Act by President Bola Tinubu on Nov. 23, 2023 was a landmark achievement towards achieving self-reliance in defence capabilities.

According to him, the revised legislation empowers DICON to produce, stock, and dispose of ammunition, consequently establishing a reliable supply chain for our military.

“The DICON Act establishes the Defence Industry Technology, Research and Development Institute; and will leverage multidisciplinary research to drive the commercialization and evolution of new military technologies, strategically positioning Nigeria as a leader in defence innovation in the process.

“The revitalisation of DICON represents more than just an enhancement of our defence capabilities; it is a statement of national pride and self-sufficiency.

“This initiative will create jobs for our youth, advance Nigeria’s technological and military stature, and position us as a key player in the global defence market.

“Our goal is to develop a robust domestic industry capable of meeting Nigeria’s security needs and, in the future, serve international markets,” he said.

Abubakar said that some of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed by DICON would pave way for the establishment of a munitions production facility that would equip troops with needed tools.

According to him, the ultimate goal is to achieve self-sufficiency in the defence sector for Nigeria as well as contribute to the global defence industry.