Tinubu Greenlights Mass Production of Advanced BAT-1 Assault Rifles to Strengthen Nigeria’s Armed Forces

President Bola Tinubu has taken a significant step in bolstering Nigeria’s defense capabilities by ordering the mass production of the BAT-1 Specialized Assault Rifle. This move underscores his administration’s commitment to advancing indigenous defense production through the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON).

Speaking at DICON’s 60th anniversary and the Inaugural Africa Defence Industries Conference in Abuja, Tinubu emphasized DICON’s strategic importance and vast market potential within Africa. He highlighted the need for innovation and technology in driving the nation’s military industrial complex forward, a vision that led to the signing of the DICON Act 2023 within his first six months in office.

“Industrialization and innovation are capital-intensive but essential for any nation’s growth. My administration will invest significantly in DICON to ensure it fulfills its mandate effectively within the 2030 roadmap,” Tinubu stated.

Represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen George Akuma, Tinubu outlined plans to enhance Nigeria’s defense infrastructure. The President stressed that DICON’s upgraded capabilities, including modern automated production lines, would significantly strengthen the nation’s security and prosperity.

These new production lines are set to manufacture a variety of advanced equipment, including ammunition, Mine Resistant Ambush Patrol Vehicles, Armoured Personnel Carriers, drones, and unmanned ground vehicles. The introduction of the BAT-1 Assault Rifle is particularly noteworthy, as it aims to curb small arms proliferation and equip security forces with cutting-edge weaponry.

In addition to military hardware, Tinubu announced the development of a state-of-the-art micro motherboard processing facility to support robotics and artificial intelligence innovations. This facility will be powered by resources from Nigeria’s new lithium development plant in Nasarawa State.

The expansion of DICON’s production capabilities is expected to generate jobs, develop human capital, and stimulate economic growth. Tinubu expressed satisfaction with the progress toward establishing Nigeria’s first automated production lines for unmanned aerial and land vehicles, which will play a crucial role in combating terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and other violent crimes.

The President reiterated that national security is a top priority for his administration. He called for a Whole of Government and Society Approach to address the complex security challenges facing the nation. The signing of the DICON Act 2023 marks a new chapter for DICON, positioning it as the cornerstone of Nigeria’s Military Industrial Complex and a key player in defense manufacturing and technology.

As DICON celebrates its diamond jubilee, Tinubu outlined a vision for the future that aligns with his administration’s “Renewed Hope Agenda.” The DICON Evolution Strategy and Road Map 2030, based on the DICON Act 2023, aims to close performance gaps in the Military Industrial Complex and position DICON as a global leader in defense innovation.

In a call for international collaboration, Tinubu invited global partners to join efforts in building a safer and more prosperous Africa. He emphasized that the Maiden Africa Defence Industries Conference would serve as a platform for forging strategic partnerships to enhance capabilities and promote regional security.

The event also featured remarks from Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle, who praised the establishment of DICON in 1964 as a bold and visionary step towards self-reliance in Nigeria’s defense capabilities. He acknowledged the significant contributions DICON has made to national security over the past 60 years and highlighted that the new legal framework under the DICON Act 2023 empowers the corporation to operate with greater autonomy and efficiency.

Dignitaries at the event included the Chief of Defence Staff, General CG Musa, Service Chiefs, former Chiefs of Defence Staff, and other military leaders.