Local arms manufacturers, operating under the umbrella of the Defence Industries Association of Nigeria, have called for the full implementation of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria Act 2023 to speed up local defence production and reduce Nigeria’s reliance on imported military equipment.
The call was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the association’s General Meeting held in Abuja and signed by the General Secretary of DIAN, Engr. Kola Balogun, on Friday.
The association stressed that implementing the Act is essential for achieving self-reliance in defence manufacturing through improved local capacity, innovation, and industrial cooperation.
The communiqué stated, “To fast-track self-reliance in defence production through enhanced indigenous capacity, innovation, and industrial collaboration, the full implementation of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria Act 2023 is central to achieving this objective.
“The Act provides a framework for local manufacturing, technology transfer, reduced import dependence, foreign exchange conservation, and job creation.”
DIAN explained that proper implementation of the law would strengthen Nigeria’s defence industrial base, increase local procurement, and enhance the country’s ability to address rising security challenges.
The association added that it is developing a coordinated strategy to deepen stakeholder collaboration and advise the government on policies aimed at reducing dependence on imported military hardware.
It further noted that this effort would strengthen supply chains, attract investment into the defence sector, and support national efforts to combat insecurity.
DIAN revealed that more than 18 new members have joined the association, describing it as a sign of growing investor confidence in Nigeria’s defence manufacturing industry.
However, the association expressed concern over weak coordination within the defence industrial ecosystem, calling it a major obstacle to sectoral growth.
It therefore urged stronger institutional coordination and effective policy implementation to ensure the objectives of the DICON Act are fully achieved.
As part of internal restructuring, DIAN announced the dissolution of its pioneer executives and trustees, with new elections scheduled for July 2026.
The association also adopted its constitution to guide its operations and strengthen transparency and accountability.
It further encouraged members to participate in the African International Defence Exhibition scheduled to take place in Lagos from Oct. 26 to Oct. 29, 2026.
DIAN stated that the exhibition would provide a platform to showcase Nigeria’s growing defence manufacturing capabilities and attract global partnerships.
The Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria Act 2023 was signed into law by President Bola Tinubu in 2023 to reposition Nigeria’s defence manufacturing sector and reduce heavy reliance on imported military hardware.
The law expanded DICON’s mandate beyond small arms and ammunition production to include manufacturing, storage, distribution, and maintenance of a wider range of military equipment through partnerships with local and foreign investors.
Under the framework, DICON is expected to promote local defence production, encourage research and innovation, create jobs, strengthen national security, and support Nigeria’s drive for self-reliance in defence procurement.
