John Shiklam in Kaduna
The Managing Director of DICON-D7G, Mr. Osman Chennar, has known as on the federal authorities to intensify assist for native defence manufacturing and know-how switch to scale back Nigeria’s reliance on imported army gear.
Chennar made the decision in an announcement yesterday in Kaduna because the organisation participated in and sponsored the continuing African Defence Industries Exhibition (AFRIDEX) in Lagos.
He warned that dependence on international suppliers may depart the nation weak to provide chain disruptions and delays within the supply of army gear, with potential implications for army operations.
He stated: “No nation can obtain real strategic autonomy if its crucial army capabilities stay closely depending on exterior provide chains.
“Nigeria must develop the capacity to manufacture, maintain, and sustain the equipment required by its Armed Forces.”
The assertion stated native defence manufacturing should prolong past the meeting of imported gear to the event of indigenous applied sciences, expert manpower, and sustainable manufacturing capabilities.
“Technology transfer must translate into practical industrial capacity, enabling Nigerian engineers and manufacturers to acquire the expertise required to produce, maintain, and upgrade military equipment,” the assertion added.
Chennar stated strategic partnerships had been crucial to bridging the hole between army necessities and home manufacturing capability.
He described AFRIDEX as a platform for bringing collectively authorities establishments, producers, traders, and researchers to discover alternatives for native manufacturing and industrial cooperation.
The assertion stated: “Building a strong defence industry requires coordinated efforts involving government institutions, private manufacturers, universities and technology companies working towards clearly defined national security objectives.”
Chennar additionally known as for elevated authorities assist and personal sector funding in defence analysis, manufacturing infrastructure, and technical coaching.
According to him, sustained funding would allow native producers to develop aggressive merchandise, create expert employment, and retain a better share of defence expenditure inside the home economic system.
“Indigenous defence manufacturing is not only a security priority; it is also an opportunity to stimulate industrial growth, develop technical expertise, and create employment for Nigerians,” he stated.
The organisation stated elevated home manufacturing may improve army readiness by lowering reliance on international suppliers for spare components, upkeep, and gear assist.
It added that stronger native manufacturing may additionally allow Nigeria to provide defence merchandise to different African international locations, topic to relevant high quality requirements and export necessities.
“Nigeria has the potential to become a significant contributor to Africa’s defence industrial development. Achieving this requires sustained investment, innovation, and partnerships that strengthen local production capacity,” he pressured.
The assertion maintained that defence self-reliance didn’t suggest isolation from worldwide companions however required mutually helpful relationships able to delivering know-how switch and long-term industrial growth.
