Nigeria is taking bold steps toward military self-reliance, moving away from decades of dependence on foreign suppliers for its defence needs June 4, 2025.
This was the central message delivered by the Minister of Defence, according to report, on June 4, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, during a recent two-day working visit to major military institutions in Kaduna State.
The minister’s remarks, released through his media aide, Mati Ali, signal a new era for Nigeria’s armed forces.
One defined by innovation, local manufacturing, and strategic investment in homegrown capabilities.
For years, Nigeria’s military relied heavily on foreign procurement for combat vehicles, arms, ammunition, and essential equipment.
However, Minister Badaru emphasized that this paradigm is changing.
“Nigeria is steadily moving away from dependence on foreign military procurement towards local production of combat vehicles, arms, ammunition, and other military equipment,” he said.
The minister underscored that this shift is not limited to new production alone but also includes the repair and refurbishment of existing military hardware.
“Training remains a vital pillar in achieving Nigeria’s defence objectives”
I equally inspected several workshops and saw impressive potentials and progress on repairs and refurbishing of completely burnt and damaged MRAPs, tanks, and APC vehicles,” he noted.
A Glimpse into Nigeria’s workshops
Minister Badaru’s tour took him to the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), the Command Engineering Depot (CED), Buffalo Engineering Technical Services Limited (BETSL), and the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT) all in Kaduna.
He was accompanied by top military brass, including Major General M.L.D. Saraso, General Officer Commanding 1 Division; Major General A.K. Ibrahim, Commandant of the NDA; and Air Vice Marshal Sani Labaran Rabe, Commandant of AFIT.
At these facilities, the minister observed firsthand the ongoing construction of new combat platforms such as Buffalo Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs), Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles, bulletproof glass, spare parts, and surveillance Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs).
He highlighted that some of these assets have already been redeployed to operational theatres, while others are ready for immediate deployment.
“The level of innovation and technical expertise on display is impressive,” Minister Badaru remarked.
“Some of the equipment successfully constructed and repaired is made readily available for redeployment while others are already deployed back to theatres of operations.”
Central to this transformation is the emphasis on Training, Research, Development, and Innovation (RDI).
The minister praised the Armed Forces’ commitment to continuous training and skills development, which are essential for operational effectiveness and technological advancement.
He also highlighted the importance of sustained investment in key institutions such as the NDA, AFIT, CED, and BETSL.
These organizations, he said, are instrumental in producing highly skilled and dedicated military personnel, as well as advancing domestic defence production capabilities.
Legislative Backing and Presidential Commitment
Minister Badaru credited President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for its unwavering commitment to overhauling Nigeria’s defence infrastructure.
He pointed to the recent signing of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) Bill into law as a landmark achievement.
The legislation is designed to empower local industries in the production, refurbishment, and supply of military hardware and ordnance not just for the Armed Forces, but for all security agencies in Nigeria.
“This law will strengthen our local capabilities and ensure that our military is better equipped to meet the challenges of modern warfare,” the minister stated.
Building a Self-reliant Defence Sector
As Nigeria continues its journey towards military self-sufficiency, the Defence Ministry is calling for ongoing investment in research, development, and technical education.
The aim is to create a robust ecosystem where local talent, innovation, and industry work hand-in-hand to meet the country’s defence needs.
Minister Badaru’s visit and his subsequent statements have been met with optimism across the defence sector.
Experts believe that with sustained government support and strategic partnerships.
Nigeria could soon become a regional leader in military hardware production and maintenance.
Nigeria’s shift towards local production of military equipment is not just a response to global supply chain challenges it is a strategic move to secure the nation’s future, strengthen internal security, and foster a culture of innovation and self-reliance within the armed forces.
As these efforts gain momentum, the world will be watching Nigeria’s defence sector with renewed interest and respect.
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