The Independent Media and Policy Initiative (IMPI) has urged the Federal Government to prioritise local arms production as part of efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture, with the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) positioned to lead the drive.

In a policy statement signed by its Chairman, Dr Omoniyi Akinsiju, the think tank called on the administration of President Bola Tinubu to ensure adequate funding for DICON and facilitate strategic partnerships with countries such as Turkey and Israel to address gaps in technical expertise.

IMPI noted that although DICON was established in 1964 to drive self-reliance in defence manufacturing, the agency has been constrained by years of underfunding and bureaucratic bottlenecks. It cited the corporation’s OBJ-006 rifle as an example, pointing out that despite being conceived as a symbol of self-sufficiency, the weapon still depends on imported components.

The think tank contrasted Nigeria’s situation with developments in other countries, referencing South Africa’s Paramount Group, which produces armoured vehicles for global markets, and Turkey’s rapidly expanding drone industry.

According to IMPI, Nigeria has the industrial and human capacity to meet much of its defence needs locally, but lacks the political will to fully harness it. It highlighted the work of local firms such as Proforce, which manufactures mine-resistant vehicles, while lamenting the continued importation of expensive, refurbished military equipment through intermediaries.

IMPI also recalled the controversial $500 million contract awarded in 2014 for outdated Puma helicopters, describing it as emblematic of systemic failures and corruption within defence procurement processes.

The policy group further stressed that the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT) could play a pivotal role in advancing indigenous drone technology. It said AFIT already has a pool of skilled engineers and researchers engaged in the design and development of locally made drones for military, civilian and scientific applications.

IMPI concluded that a deliberate shift towards local arms production, backed by sustained funding and international technical collaboration, would enhance national security, reduce costs and strengthen Nigeria’s defence self-reliance.