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 shifts from foreign procurement to local production of combat vehicles, arms, ammunition, equipment.
Nigeria shifts from foreign procurement to local production of combat vehicles, arms, ammunition, equipment.
“Training remains a vital pillar in achieving Nigeria’s defence objectives”
Minister inspected workshops repairing refurbished burnt MRAPs, tanks, APCs with impressive progress.
A Glimpse into Nigeria’s workshops
Minister Badaru toured NDA, CED, BETSL, AFIT, all in Kaduna.
The Minister observed Buffalo APCs, MRAPs, bulletproof glass, spare parts, surveillance UAVs construction.
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 successfully constructed and repaired equipment stands ready for redeployment; others already serve in operational theatres.
Central to this transformation is the emphasis on Training, Research, Development, and Innovation (RDI).
Minister praises Armed Forces’ training commitment for operational effectiveness, 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 empowers local industries to produce, refurbish, supply military hardware for all Nigerian security agencies.
Law strengthens local capabilities, equipping military for modern warfare challenges.
Building a Self-reliant Defence Sector
Nigeria aims to build robust ecosystem uniting local talent, innovation, industry for defence needs.
Defence sector welcomes Minister Badaru’s visit and statements with optimism.
Experts believe that with sustained government support and strategic partnerships.
Nigeria could soon become a regional leader in military hardware production and maintenance.
Nigeria shifts to local military production, securing future, strengthening security, fostering innovation, self-reliance.
As these efforts gain momentum, the world will be watching Nigeria’s defence sector with renewed interest and respect.
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