News
Group Commends Matawalle on the Revival of DICON
Says: “Nigeria will save millions in Foreign Exchange spent on ammunition purchases.”
The revitalization of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) represents a pivotal advancement for Nigeria’s security landscape, with the potential of saving the nation significant amounts of foreign exchange previously spent on procuring ammunition from abroad, according to the Arewa Youth Awareness Movement (AYAM).
In a statement commending the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle, MON, and signed by its Team Lead, Jamilu Bawa, AYAM praised the Minister’s transformative leadership since assuming office, noting that his efforts have breathed new life into DICON.
“The Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria, established in 1964, has not witnessed such an infusion of optimism in over three decades. Originally conceived to produce military products, including arms, ammunition, and military gear, DICON has experienced a resurgence under Dr. Matawalle’s stewardship in the past year, unlike anything seen in decades.”
“It is a matter of national pride and satisfaction to see Nigeria emerge as a state capable of producing its own weapons and ammunition, eliminating our over-reliance on foreign powers for essential tools in the fight against terrorism.”
AYAM emphasized the importance of this development at a time when Nigeria must decisively end criminal activities such as terrorism and banditry. It stressed that equipping the armed forces with domestically produced arms, ammunition, and other resources is critical to achieving the country’s national security objectives.
The group further highlighted Dr. Matawalle’s commitment to the nation’s self-reliance in security, demonstrated not just through rhetoric but through tangible actions aimed at revitalizing Nigeria’s local production capacity for military gear and equipment.
The statement also cited the recent Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and joint venture between DICON, the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), and the Ministry of Steel Development, aimed at establishing an ammunition production factory. This groundbreaking initiative, according to the group, will enable Nigeria to save millions of dollars that would otherwise be spent on importing ammunition.
“Recently, it was revealed that the Nigerian government spent over N60 billion on purchasing ammunition within just six months, amounting to approximately $37 million. With the implementation of this initiative, Nigeria stands to save hundreds of millions of naira by producing its own ammunition domestically.”
AYAM also commended the administration of President Tinubu for its efforts in boosting the morale of Nigerian troops through these initiatives, thereby enhancing the country’s military capabilities
News
TCN Acknowledges 7th Grid Collapse in 2024
The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has reported its seventh partial grid collapse in 2024. Despite the recurring issue, TCN’s General Manager of Public Affairs, Ndidi Mbah, reassured the public that efforts to restore power are well underway, with about 90% of substations receiving bulk power.
Mbah noted that the Azura Power Station initiated the grid recovery, although a minor setback occurred. However, power supply has been restored to the Abuja region and other key distribution centers. The Ibom Gas Generating Station remained unaffected, continuing to supply power to the South-South region.
An investigation into the cause of the collapse will commence once full grid restoration is achieved.
News
Jigawa Tanker Tragedy: Shettima, First Lady Mourn Victims, Pledge Federal Support
Vice President Kashim Shettima has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic tanker explosion in Jigawa State, which claimed over 100 lives. In a statement issued by his media aide, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima, on behalf of President Bola Tinubu, extended condolences to the affected families, praying for strength and comfort in their time of grief.
Shettima assured the public that the federal government is mobilizing resources to support the injured and assist those affected. He has directed the immediate deployment of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to provide aid. The Vice President also stressed the need for a review of fuel transportation safety protocols to prevent future incidents.
In a separate statement, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu offered her condolences to Jigawa Governor Umar Namadi and the people of Jigawa, praying for peace and comfort for the families affected. She called the incident “unfortunate” and extended prayers for the recovery of the injured and the repose of the souls lost in the tragedy.
News
Nigeria Customs Intercepts Arms, Ammunition Worth N9.5bn Over Six Years
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has revealed that it intercepted a total of 10,598 pieces of arms and 114,929 rounds of ammunition valued at N9.58 billion over the past six years. Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, made this disclosure during a press conference on enforcement activities in Zone A.
Adeniyi highlighted that 60% of these seizures occurred in 2023, reflecting the Customs’ increased efforts to curb arms smuggling. He also mentioned that recent operations such as Operation Whirlwind and Operation Swift Sting are part of a strategic response to tackle evolving smuggling tactics.
In addition to arms seizures, the Customs CG announced the largest pangolin scale seizure since 2020, with 9,493 kg of scales confiscated in collaboration with the Wildlife Justice Commission. The joint operation led to four arrests across Kano, Kaduna, and Lagos. The NCS continues to intensify efforts against wildlife trafficking, targeting supply routes in northern Nigeria and border areas.
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