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