Nigeria to Boost Local Military Hardware, Anti-Drone Production

Nigeria has announced plans to strengthen its defence industry by prioritising local production of military hardware and anti-drone systems. The initiative is aimed at reducing reliance on foreign suppliers and enhancing the country’s capacity to respond to emerging security threats.

The move was disclosed by the Ministry of Defence during a recent briefing in Abuja, where officials highlighted the importance of building indigenous capacity in weapons manufacturing. According to the ministry, the project will involve collaboration between government agencies, research institutions, and private sector partners.

Defence authorities explained that the decision was informed by the growing use of drones and other advanced technologies by criminal groups and insurgents. Local production of anti-drone systems, they said, would provide the military with faster access to tools needed to counter such threats.

A senior defence official noted that Nigeria’s dependence on imported military equipment has often delayed operations and increased costs. “Developing our own systems will not only save resources but also ensure that our armed forces have timely access to the equipment they need,” the official stated.

The Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) is expected to play a central role in the programme. The corporation has previously produced small arms and ammunition, and officials say it will now expand into more advanced technologies, including surveillance and counter-drone systems.

Security analysts have welcomed the plan, describing it as a step towards self-sufficiency. They argue that local production will also create jobs and foster innovation in Nigeria’s technology sector. However, they caution that sustained investment and transparency will be critical to its success.

In recent years, Nigeria has faced increasing security challenges, ranging from insurgency in the North-East to banditry and kidnapping in other regions. The use of drones by non-state actors has added new complexity to these threats, making anti-drone technology a priority for the military.

The government has assured that the initiative will be implemented in phases, beginning with research and development, followed by pilot production and eventual large-scale manufacturing. Officials also emphasised that international partnerships would continue where necessary, but with a stronger focus on building local expertise.

By targeting local production of military hardware, Nigeria hopes to strengthen its defence posture, reduce costs, and improve operational readiness. The Ministry of Defence said the programme reflects the country’s broader strategy to modernise its armed forces and safeguard national security.