By Harriet Tornguvan
Dr. Bello Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defence, has praised the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) for its crucial role in bolstering Nigeria's defence capabilities.
Speaking at DICON's 60th Anniversary and the inaugural Africa Defence Industries Conference in Abuja, Matawalle highlighted the organization's vital contributions to the nation's security infrastructure and its ongoing support to the Nigerian Armed Forces.
Matawalle underscored DICON's historical significance since its establishment in 1964, emphasizing its mission to foster self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
He acknowledged that DICON has become a cornerstone of Nigeria's national security over the past six decades, providing essential equipment and enhancing military capabilities.
He expressed confidence that the future holds even greater prospects for DICON, especially with the recent passage of the DICON Act 2023, which grants the corporation increased autonomy and efficiency in meeting Nigeria's evolving defence needs.
The Minister also introduced DICON's Vision and Strategy Road Map 2030, aligning it with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's "Renewed Hope Agenda."
The strategic plan aims to position DICON as a leader in defence innovation across Africa, focusing on strengthening national security, promoting sustainable development, and advancing economic diversification through industrialization and digitization.
A key highlight of the event was the launch of the Maiden Africa Defence Industries Conference, which Matawalle described as a groundbreaking initiative that will foster collaboration among defence experts, industry leaders, and innovators from across the continent.
The conference also features the Defence Innovation Challenge, a competition designed to engage Nigeria's young talents in developing innovative solutions to enhance national and regional security.
The Director General of DICON, Major General Aniedi Edet, reaffirmed the corporation's commitment to developing advanced defence technologies and investing in human resources to build a robust Military Industrial Complex. He also emphasized the importance of international partnerships in sharing innovations and technologies.
General Christopher Gwabin, Chief of Defence Staff, commended DICON's significant role in safeguarding Nigeria's security and sovereignty over the past 60 years.
Mr Gwabin urged stakeholders to embrace new technologies and innovate solutions that will ensure the continued security and prosperity of Nigeria and Africa.
The event featured the launch of the DICON Anniversary book and the unveiling of a new DICON logo, with President Tinubu represented by Senator George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.
