DICON Sounds Alarm: Importing Raw Materials For Arms Manufacturing Slows Down National Security Response

DICON Sounds Alarm: Importing Raw Materials For Arms Manufacturing Slows Down National Security Response

Major General Aniedi Edet, the Director General of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), has raised concerns about the detrimental impact of importing raw materials on the country’s ability to address insecurity effectively…..READ ALSO Insecurity Strikes: Bandits Turn Benue’s Sankera Into Nightmare Realm

In a press briefing following an inspection tour of facilities at the National Metallurgical Development Centre (NMDC) in Jos, Plateau State, on Thursday, February 15, Edet emphasized the critical role of local raw materials in arms production. He revealed that reliance on foreign suppliers for raw materials has resulted in significant delays in obtaining essential components for arms and ammunition manufacturing.

Edet stated, “DICON is committed to equipping the armed forces and security agencies with the necessary hardware to combat insecurity. However, the reliance on imported raw materials has hampered our response time, posing a challenge in addressing security threats across the nation.”

Recognizing the potential solution, Edet highlighted the abundant availability of essential raw materials such as lead, copper, and brass at NMDC. He emphasized DICON’s resolve to prioritize sourcing these materials domestically in 2024, aiming to streamline production processes and bolster national security efforts.

This revelation underscores the urgency for Nigeria to enhance its self-reliance in arms manufacturing by tapping into local resources, thereby strengthening the country’s defense capabilities and responsiveness to security challenges.