Matawalle Highlights Growing Interest In DICON Firearms Among African Countries

Matawalle Highlights Growing Interest In DICON Firearms Among African Countries

Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, announced on Monday that the Defence Industry Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) is now a preferred supplier of arms and ammunition for various African countries……. CONTINUE READING 

Established in 1964 to enhance national security through local arms production, DICON was initially intended to reduce Nigeria’s dependency on foreign weapons. Despite this goal, Nigeria has continued to rely on international suppliers for equipment used in counter-terrorism and other security efforts.

In a briefing on DICON’s 60th anniversary and the launch of the inaugural Africa Defence Industries conference, Matawalle highlighted the corporation’s expanding role. “DICON has the capacity to produce both arms and ammunition for domestic and international clients. Many African countries are increasingly turning to DICON for their defense needs,” he said.

Matawalle noted that while DICON began with a focus on small arms, it has since diversified into military vehicles, artillery, and other defense equipment. He emphasized that DICON’s growth reflects Nigeria’s commitment to self-reliance in defense production.

“The corporation’s 60-year history underscores its role as a pivotal player in Nigeria’s defense sector, contributing significantly to national security and economic development,” he added.

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Matawalle also spoke about the new DICON Act 2023, which he believes will enhance national development by boosting foreign exchange earnings through local production, creating jobs, and reducing capital flight.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Abubakar Kana, announced that Nigeria would soon cease importing 7.62mm ammunition, thanks to local production. “Within the next two years, Nigeria will no longer purchase 7.62mm ammunition from abroad. The Public Procurement Act now prioritizes locally produced goods,” Kana said.

He further mentioned that all government agencies must procure arms from DICON unless the required equipment is not available locally.

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