General Christopher Musa, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), appeared on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Friday.
He emphasized that the military is on track to become a superpower in military equipment production within a few years.
Musa acknowledged past challenges, stating, “Sometimes we gain traction and then it goes down.
However, with the signing of the DICON Bill, we will ensure sustainability.”
He noted increased interest and partnerships, assuring viewers that Nigeria would soon produce its own military equipment.
Historically, the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) manufactured some military weapons, but production slowed over the years.
Despite this setback, General Musa expressed optimism about resuming military equipment production, highlighting that the Nigerian military now directly manufactures small-caliber weapons.
He explained, “We used to assemble guns at DICON, but that stopped.
Now, we produce our own ammunition directly for small calibers like 7.62mm and 9mm.” He added, “We aim to expand to 5.6mm and higher calibers, such as 12.7mm and above.”
Musa pointed out that DICON, established 60 years ago, parallels Brazil’s military production advancements.
While Brazil produces unmanned aircraft and submarines, Nigeria aspires to achieve similar capabilities.
The Chief of Defence Staff stressed that local military equipment production will create jobs for youth and improve foreign exchange.
Additionally, it will enable Nigeria to sell equipment to neighboring countries, generating funds for the military.
With the Federal High Court in Abuja proscribing the Lakurawa sect and classifying it as a terrorist organization, Musa noted that this decision provides the military with “legal backing” to combat them effectively.
He mentioned that foreign weapons, like the Super Tucano, previously had usage restrictions, but the proscription allows for their deployment against the group.
