Nigeria is set to expand local defence manufacturing through a new partnership between the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria and Eagles International for Defence Systems. The initiative is aimed at accelerating technology transfer, strengthening domestic manufacturing capacity and reducing the country’s dependence on imported military equipment.
The planned production programme will cover several defence platforms, including Buffalo armoured vehicles, Rhino Guard anti drone and RPG protected vehicles, Moon APCs, GXR Phantom light vehicles and BMP 2 Infantry Fighting Vehicles. According to DICON CEO Osman Chennar, the project is expected to create more than 200 jobs and provide employment opportunities for about 100 retired military personnel.
The partnership forms part of Nigeria’s broader efforts to develop a stronger domestic defence industry. Recent initiatives have included increased private sector participation in military equipment manufacturing and agreements aimed at attracting investment and technology into Nigeria’s defence sector.
The government hopes the expansion of local production will strengthen Nigeria’s military capabilities while creating opportunities to supply defence equipment to other African countries. The initiative is also expected to deepen collaboration between defence agencies, private companies and research institutions in developing indigenous military technologies.