He disclosed that 53 firms are involved in defence manufacturing, with 10 already producing military items such as helmets, ballistic vests, and weapons components. By December, 20 are expected to be in full production.
THE GUARDIAN NG
Nigeria is set to commence the export of locally produced military equipment before the end of 2025, Defence Minister Mohammed Badaru Abubakar announced on Wednesday during the 2025 Ministerial Press Briefing in Abuja.
The initiative, he said, aims to enhance national security and generate foreign exchange. “We are working to activate a section of Ajaokuta to support DICON’s production capacity,” Badaru revealed.
He disclosed that 53 firms are involved in defence manufacturing, with 10 already producing military items such as helmets, ballistic vests, and weapons components. By December, 20 are expected to be in full production.
Addressing security threats, the Minister debunked claims that terrorists possess superior drone technology. “That is absolutely not true. The drones used by terrorists are not military-grade,” he stated.
He added that security agencies, in collaboration with global partners, are tracking supply chains for improvised drones used by extremists, while also reporting progress in counterinsurgency efforts and intelligence gathering.