In a groundbreaking move, Nigeria’s Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) and Ministry of Defence on Wednesday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) in a transformative step towards enhancing the nation’s defence capabilities and achieving autonomy in military hardware production.
This marks a major move in building a Military Industrial Complex (MIC) that would help in providing a foundation on Nigeria’s defence infrastructure through indigenous innovation and technological progress.
At the MoU signing ceremony, Executive Vice Chairman of NASENI, Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, explained that the initiative is not merely strategic but a national imperative which “highlights our dedication to leveraging Nigeria’s scientific and engineering expertise for national defence.
“With its strong track record in research, development, and manufacturing, NASENI is poised to play a pivotal role in establishing the MIC. The new Military Industrial Complex will become a central hub for developing, producing, and maintaining military equipment—from small arms to sophisticated defense systems. This initiative aims to build a resilient ecosystem that caters to the needs of the Nigerian Armed Forces while fostering local industry growth and reducing dependence on foreign imports.
“This MoU marks the beginning of a long-term collaboration focused on enhancing our defense capabilities through innovation and local production.
“Our objective is to equip our military with top-tier tools for national defense, and through this partnership, we will lay the groundwork for a self-reliant defense industry that also supports Nigeria’s economic growth.”
Halilu extended his profound gratitude to Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, and the entire Ministry for their steadfast support and trust in NASENI, adding: “We are committed to realizing the vision of a Nigerian Military Industrial Complex. It is our duty to our nation, our Armed Forces, and future generations.”
The MoU represents the initiation of a strategic alliance that promises to elevate Nigeria’s defense capabilities and contribute significantly to the broader objectives of national security and economic development.
The historic agreement was witnessed by key stakeholders, including Prince Shuaibu Abubakar Audu, Minister of Steel Development, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, and senior officers of the Nigerian Armed Forces.