Nigeria targets defence equipment self-sufficiency 61 years after DICON

DICON-D7G unveiled plans at the Africa International Defence Exhibition (AFRIDEX) in Lagos to expand local defence manufacturing, attract foreign investment and create 7,000 jobs for retired military personnel and civilians. CEO Osman Chennar said the initiative aims to reduce Nigeria’s reliance on imported equipment through local production, technology transfer and industrial partnerships. The organisation is also seeking about 40,000 square metres of land in Lagos for an international defence exhibition centre. The initiative comes 61 years after the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria was established in 1964.