The Independent Media and Policy Initiative (IMPI) has called on the Federal Government to prioritize local arms production, placing the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) at the forefront with immediate funding and strategic international partnerships.
In a policy statement signed by its Chairman, Dr. Omoniyi Akinsiju, IMPI urged the President Bola Tinubu administration to empower DICON—established in 1964 as the backbone of Nigeria’s defence self-reliance—by addressing chronic underfunding and bureaucratic hurdles that have stifled its potential.
“DICON’s OBJ-006 rifle, intended to symbolize self-sufficiency, still depends on imported parts,” the statement noted, drawing stark contrasts with global success stories. South Africa’s Paramount Group exports armoured vehicles worldwide, while Turkey’s drone industry thrives on innovation and investment. “Nigeria has the capacity; what is missing is the political will.”
IMPI highlighted domestic strengths, pointing to local firm Proforce’s production of mine-resistant vehicles, yet decried the military’s reliance on overpriced, refurbished imports through questionable middlemen. It cited the infamous $500 million contract for outdated Puma helicopters in 2014, marred by corruption allegations, as a glaring example of systemic failures.
To bridge expertise gaps, the think tank recommended partnerships with tech leaders like Turkey and Israel. It also spotlighted the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT), whose skilled engineers and researchers are already designing indigenous drones for military, civilian, and scientific uses, positioning it as a key player in advancing Nigeria’s drone capabilities.
The push comes amid ongoing security challenges, underscoring the economic and strategic imperative for homegrown defence manufacturing to reduce import dependency and foster job creation.
