Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, on Thursday urged the Federal University Dutse (FUD), Jigawa State to partner with the Ministry Defence on Conflict resolution and research on Military equipment production and repair through Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria.
Receiving the Vice Chancellor of FUD, Professor Abdulkarim Sabo Mohammed and Management of the University in Ship House, Abuja, the Minister said the Ministry is open for possible collaboration with the Federal University Dutse and other indigenous companies.
Emphasizing the importance of collaboration in conflict resolution studies and research for defence hardware production, Badaru said that “with our DICON Bill, we are encouraging our indigenous companies to be involved in the production of weapons, ammunition and spare parts for our military hardware.”
The Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) is a Nigerian company responsible for the production of military equipment and hardware for the Nigerian Armed Forces and aims to achieve self-sufficiency in military equipment production, reduce reliance on foreign suppliers, and enhance Nigeria’s defence capabilities.
The Minister commended the Vice Chancellor for his leadership and innovations, urging for sustained collaboration for national benefit.
On his part, the Vice Chancellor of the university, Professor Mohammed congratulated the Minister on his achievements, acknowledging his contributions to the University’s development during and after his tenure as Jigawa State Governor, including the establishment of the University’s Teaching Hospital and flagship structures.
“Your contributions to the development of our University as the Executive Governor of Jigawa State is enormous and unprecedented and also your continued contributions to date,” he said.