Nigeria plans large-scale domestic defense production within one year

Nigeria has announced plans to commence large-scale local production of defense hardware within the next year. Minister of Defense Christopher Musa stated that the initiative aims to meet domestic military requirements and eventually export equipment to other African nations, reducing the country's current reliance on imports from the US, France, Italy, and China.

The Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) will play a central role in this expansion. The government intends to achieve self-reliance through targeted investments, technology transfers, research, and partnerships with international manufacturers.

These developments were highlighted during the maiden Africa International Defence Exhibition (AFRIDEX) in Lagos. During the event, Minister of State for Defence Bello Matawalle held discussions with international delegations, including representatives from Türkiye and France, to explore technological partnerships. The exhibition featured various technologies, including unmanned aerial systems, surveillance equipment, and cybersecurity solutions from companies representing Türkiye, China, South Korea, and other nations.