*Photo: Dr Bello Muhammad Matawalle*
Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Muhammad Matawalle has described the journey of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) as a testament to Nigeria’s commitment to self-reliance in defence production.
Matawalle stated this on Monday at a press conference to herald the 60th anniversary celebration of DICON and the launch of the Maiden Africa Defence Industries Conference (ADIC).
According to the Minister, “DICON’s 60-year journey is a testament to Nigeria’s commitment to self-reliance in defence production. Through collaboration and innovation, the corporation has established itself as a key player in the defence sector. As DICON continues to evolve, its contributions will remain crucial to Nigeria’s national security and economic growth.”
He said “The DICON was established in 1964 and has since been at the forefront of Nigeria’s defence manufacturing, contributing significantly to national security and technological advancement. This 60th anniversary marks a significant milestone in our journey of innovation, resilience, and dedication to the defence needs of our nation.”
The Minister added that “Today, DICON is celebrating 60 years of dedicated service in the production and repair of military hardware and equipment. Since its establishment, DICON has played a crucial role in Nigeria’s defence sector, collaborating with indigenous companies to achieve excellence in military manufacturing.”
He enthused that “DICON’s journey began with a modest start, focusing on the production of small arms and ammunition. Over the years, the corporation expanded its capabilities, venturing into the manufacture of military vehicles, artillery, and other defence equipment. Despite facing challenges, DICON persevered, driven by its commitment to self-reliance and national security.”
Read his full speech below:
HONOURBLE MINISTER OF STATE FOR DEFENCE SPEECH AT THE MEDIA BRIEFING OF THE 60TH DICON ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION HOLDING AT MOD CONFERENCE HALL SHIP HOUSE ABUJA
Protocol
Permanent Secretary,
The Directors, DG DICON, PGSO, SA (Technical), the Media, esteemed guests, ladies and gentlemen.
1. I am delighted to announce the celebration of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria’s (DICON) 60th Anniversary, alongside the launch of the Maiden Africa Defence Industries Conference (ADIC). The landmark events will take place from August 14-15, 2024, at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre, Abuja.
2. The theme, “DICON @ 60: Future Frontiers in Africa’s Defence Technology,” underscores our commitment to advancing defence capabilities through strategic partnerships, innovation, and technological advancements.
3. The new DICON Act 2023 has the potential to significantly contribute to Nigeria’s national development and national security by:
a. Boosting foreign exchange earnings through local production of defence equipment.
b. Creating jobs for skilled Nigerians.
c. Reducing capital flight to foreign nations.
4. The DICON was established in 1964 and has since been at the forefront of Nigeria’s defence manufacturing, contributing significantly to national security and technological advancement. This 60th anniversary marks a significant milestone in our journey of innovation, resilience, and dedication to the defence needs of our nation.
Today, DICON is celebrating 60 years of dedicated service in the production and repair of military hardware and equipment. Since its establishment, DICON has played a crucial role in Nigeria’s defence sector, collaborating with indigenous companies to achieve excellence in military manufacturing.
6. DICON’s journey began with a modest start, focusing on the production of small arms and ammunition. Over the years, the corporation expanded its capabilities, venturing into the manufacture of military vehicles, artillery, and other defence equipment. Despite facing challenges, DICON persevered, driven by its commitment to self-reliance and national security.
7. DICON’s 60-year journey is a testament to Nigeria’s commitment to self-reliance in defence production. Through collaboration and innovation, the corporation has established itself as a key player in the defence sector. As DICON continues to evolve, its contributions will remain crucial to Nigeria’s national security and economic growth.
8. The Africa Defence Industries Conference (ADIC) will serve as a premier platform for industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders to collaborate, share insights, and explore the future frontiers of defence technology in Africa.
9. Ladies and gentlemen, we invite innovators, startups, and research institutions to present their cutting-edge solutions that can enhance national and regional security through the Defence Innovation Challenge.
10. These celebrations, which commenced on Friday, 9th August, will herald a new era for DICON as a Military Industrial Complex, following the assent to the new DICON Act by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on 23rd November 2023.
11. The highlights of the event include a series of activities which have been meticulously planned to commemorate this milestone, taking place in both Kaduna and Abuja started from 9-15 August 2024.
12. The remaining events include:
a. Exhibition/Virtual Tour of DICON and Launch of the New DICON Strategy and Brand Identity at Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre, Abuja on Wednesday, 14th August 2024.
b. Closing Ceremony, Book Launch, and commemoration of DICON’s past Board Chairmen and Director Generals on
Thursday, 15th August 2024 at 6:00 pm.
13. We extend a warm invitation to all stakeholders, partners, and the public to join us in celebrating this momentous occasion.
14. Thank you for your attention, and we look forward to welcoming you to these historic event.