By correspondent.
The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) today 14th August 2024, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Defence, in a significant step towards enhancing Nigeria’s defence capabilities and achieving self-reliance in military hardware production.
Olusegun Ayeoyenikan, Director Information,NASENI, disclosed this in a statement signed in Abuja and made a copy available to The Reporters on Wednesday
According to him, the partnership marks a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s quest to strengthen its defence infrastructure through Indigenous innovation and technological advancement.
He said 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.
Khali,the director added,emphasized 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 defence.
According to him,NASENI’s track record in research, development, and manufacturing has positioned the agency as a key player in the establishment of the MIC.
The NASENI expressed optimism that the new Military Industrial Complex would serve as a hub for the development, production, and maintenance of military equipment, ranging from small arms to advanced defense systems.
Halilu added that the project aimed 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.
“This MoU represents the beginning of a long-term collaboration aimed at enhancing our defence capabilities through innovation and indigenous production.
“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 agency’s boss said.
Halilu expressed deep appreciation to the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, MON and the Ministry for their unwavering support and confidence in NASENI.
“We are 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,” he assured.
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, Halilu explained.
Other stakeholders at the occasion include the Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Abubakar Audu, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Dr Ibrahim Abubakar Kana,and Senior Officers of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
DICON MoU PIX 1
L-R: Executive Vice Chairman, National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu; Honorable Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Mohammed Matawalle, MON; Honorable Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Abubakar Audu, and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, mni at the MoU signing yesterday in Abuja to establish an ammunition production factory at the Defence Industries Corporation (DICON) .
DICON MoU PIX 2
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 (Mni); and Honorable Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Mohammed Matawalle (MON) at the MoU signing yesterday in Abuja to establish ammunition production factory at the Defence Industries Corporation (DICON).
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
