The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, has reaffirmed the commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to strengthening indigenous defence manufacturing, describing local production as a critical pillar for achieving military self-reliance and enhancing national security.
General Oluyede gave the assurance during a strategic visit to the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) Ordnance Factory in Kakuri, Kaduna State, where he inspected production and research facilities as part of ongoing efforts to boost Nigeria’s defence industrial capacity.
During the visit, the Director-General of DICON, Major General BI Alaya, briefed the CDS on the corporation’s manufacturing capabilities, ongoing projects and future development plans. The CDS also toured key production lines and received updates on initiatives aimed at expanding local defence manufacturing to improve operational support for the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
At the corporation’s Research and Development facilities, several indigenous defence products were showcased. General Oluyede commended the management and staff of DICON for their commitment to advancing Nigeria’s defence technology and manufacturing capabilities.
He noted that the Federal Government’s renewed focus on local defence production would enhance operational readiness, reduce reliance on foreign military hardware, conserve foreign exchange and guarantee sustainable logistics support for the Armed Forces.
The Defence Chief reaffirmed the commitment of Defence Headquarters to supporting DICON’s transformation into a world-class defence manufacturing institution capable of meeting the operational needs of the Armed Forces and other security agencies. He stressed that strengthening local defence production remains a strategic priority in building a resilient, self-sufficient and technologically advanced military.
General Oluyede further emphasized the importance of innovation and indigenous research in driving Nigeria’s defence industrialisation agenda, noting that sustained investment in local capacity would significantly improve the nation’s defence capabilities.
The CDS was accompanied on the visit by the Commandant of the Nigerian Defence Academy, Major General OT Olatoye, the General Officer Commanding 1 Division, Major General ASM Wase, and other senior military officers.
The visit reflects the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s continued commitment under the leadership of General Olufemi Oluyede to promoting innovation, advancing indigenous defence technology and strengthening Nigeria’s defence manufacturing ecosystem.
