In a significant step towards enhancing Nigeria’s defence capabilities and achieving self-reliance in military hardware production, the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Defence.
The partnership marks a milestone in Nigeria’s quest to strengthen its defence infrastructure through Indigenous innovation and technological advancement.
During the MoU signing ceremony, the Executive Vice Chairman of NASENI, Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, highlighted the importance of the Military Industrial Complex (MIC), as not just a strategic initiative but a national imperative, stressing that in a rapidly evolving global security environment, it is crucial for Nigeria to position itself to address emerging threats with homegrown solutions.
He said: “Today, we are embarking on a journey that will redefine Nigeria’s defence landscape and secure our nation’s future.
“This partnership between NASENI and the Ministry of Defense is a testament to our commitment to harness Nigeria’s scientific and engineering expertise in the service of national defense.”
According to him, the agency’s record in research, development, and manufacturing positions the it as a key player in the establishment of the MIC
Halilu maintained that the new Military Industrial Complex, which aims to create a robust ecosystem that supports the needs of the Nigerian Armed Forces while fostering the growth of local industries, thereby reducing reliance on foreign imports, would serve as a hub for the development, production, and maintenance of military equipment, ranging from small arms to advanced defense systems.
He expatiated: “This MoU represents the beginning of a long-term collaboration aimed at enhancing our defence capabilities through innovation and indigenous production,” the Executive Vice Chairman continued. “Our goal is to ensure that our military is equipped with the best tools to defend our nation, and through this partnership, we will lay the foundation for a self-reliant defence industry that will also contribute to Nigeria’s economic growth.”
The EVC thanked the Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Matawalle, and the ministry for their unwavering support and confidence in NASENI, assuring that the agency “is ready to work tirelessly to ensure that the vision of a Nigerian Military Industrial Complex becomes a reality. We owe it to our nation, to our Armed Forces, and to the generations yet unborn.”
This MoU signifies the start of a strategic partnership that will elevate Nigeria’s defence capabilities and contribute to the broader goal of national security and economic development.
Other stakeholders present to witness the signing of this landmark agreement included the Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Abubakar Audu, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Dr Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, Senior Officers of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
Photo Caption
L-R: Executive Vice Chairman, National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu; Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana; and Honorable Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Mohammed Matawalle; at the MoU signing yesterday to establish ammunition production factory at the Defence Industries Corporation (DICON) in Abuja
