Defence ministry partners NASENI for production of military hardware
Omeiza Bilal
In another development, to strengthen Nigeria’s defence capabilities and achieve self-reliance in the production of military hardware, the Ministry of Defence on Wednesday, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI).
The collaboration entails the establishment of a Military Industrial Complex for Research and Development, and for production of arms, ammunition and development of military industrial infrastructure for the purpose of national defence.
Minister of State for Defence who is also the Chairman, Board of the Defense Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle described the partnership as a milestone in Nigeria’s quest for national security and self-reliance in arms production.
He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his efforts to secure the country, stating that the milestone recorded by the administration in strengthening DICON is unprecedented.
He expressed optimism that talks with the Minister of Steel Development have reached advanced stage, saying that the Ministry of Defence will soon sign another milestone MoU with the Ministry of Steel Development toward consolidating on the efforts being made to strengthen Nigeria’s defense capabilities.
Matawalle explained that patriotism is the motivation for the giant strides scored by the administration, adding that he is determined to leave a legacy of achievements.
“We have been travelling all over the world and we see how local manufacturers are developing their countries. Unfortunately, in Nigeria for sixty years, we have not done anything.
Today, the story has changed and it will continue to change,” he said, adding that as far as he is Minister of Defense, DICON will be strengthened toward ensuring that Nigeria attains self-sufficiency in military hardware while it will produce armaments for export, a development he said will be a source of foreign exchange.
Executive Vice Chairman, National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu described the MoU signing ceremony as a significant milestone in the collaborative efforts of the government to strengthen Nigeria’s defence capabilities and achieve self-reliance in the production of military hardware.
Halilu said the establishment of the Military Industrial complex (MIC) is not just a strategic initiative, but also a national imperative in a world where technological advancement drives global security dynamics.
While saying that it is crucial that Nigeria positions itself within emerging trends in indigenous solutions, he pointed out that the partnership between the NASENI and the MOD is a testament of the government’s commitment to financing Nigeria’s scientific and engineering expertise in the area of national defense.
According to the Executive Vice Chairman, NASENI is at the forefront of promoting innovation and technological advancement across various sectors of the Nigerian economy. “By our track record of success and development manufacturing, we are poised to contribute meaningfully to the establishment of the Military Industrial Complex,” he added.
He said the goal is to produce a robust ecosystem that will not only support the needs of the armed forces, but that will also foster the growth of local industries, thereby reducing Nigeria’s dependency on foreign products.
Halilu stated: “The Military Industrial Complex will serve as a hub for the development, production and maintenance of military equipment ranging from small arms to advanced defense systems,” adding that by leveraging NASENI’s expertise on such areas as material science, robotics and advanced manufacturing, NASENI will ensure that the Nigerian military is well equipped for the defence of the country.
“The MoU represents the beginning of a long term collaboration aimed at enhancing Nigeria’s defense capabilities through innovation and indigenous production,” he said, adding that through the partnership, NASENI will lay a solid foundation for a self-reliant defense industry that can meet Nigeria’s needs while also contributing to the economic growth of the country.
Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaib Abubakar Audu who said the joint venture opens new doors and avenues for Nigeria to put her “security architecture and infrastructure in our own hands,” described it as a milestone that will strengthen the national defense system. “It will also help to improve the security situation of the country,” he stated.
Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Dr. Ibrahim Kana commended the collaborating institutions for their efforts, adding that the administration desires development collaboration between government establishments and also the private sector. This, he said, would maximize the realization of set goals.
While saying that the incubation period for the establishment of the factory is usually between one or two years, Kana expressed optimism that by August 2026, Nigeria would have something to show in its journey toward self-reliance in production of military hardware and armaments.
