Nigeria plans to commence large-scale local production of military hardware within the next year as part of efforts to reduce dependence on imported defence equipment and strengthen the country’s security capabilities.
The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, announced the plan after attending the maiden Africa International Defence Exhibition (AFRIDEX) 2026, which brought together African governments, military institutions, defence manufacturers and technology innovators to explore opportunities for defence cooperation.
According to the minister, the Federal Government is working to expand indigenous defence manufacturing through the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), with emphasis on investment, research, technology transfer and partnerships with international manufacturers.
He explained that the initiative would support the domestic production of military equipment, weapons, ammunition and other essential defence systems to improve the operational capacity of the Nigerian Armed Forces in tackling security threats.
Musa also highlighted the importance of AFRIDEX in promoting international partnerships, facilitating the exchange of technical expertise and encouraging investment in Africa’s defence industry.
He added that Nigeria’s growing defence manufacturing capacity could eventually enable the country to supply military equipment to other African nations, subject to production capacity and applicable export requirements.
The proposed initiative forms part of broader efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s defence industry, develop local technological expertise and improve self-reliance in meeting the country’s military equipment needs.
However, the proposed one-year timeline will depend on the implementation of the plan, investment commitments, manufacturing capacity and the development of the necessary technical infrastructure.
Written by Enitan Mudashiru
