CDS advocates innovation, cooperation to combat insecurity

Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff General, Christopher Musa, Wednesday, emphasized the importance of technological advancement in modern warfare and defense in tackling security challenges.

This was at the 60th Anniversary of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) and the launch of the inaugural Africa Defence Industries Conference (ADIC) which provided a platform for significant discourse on the future of defense technology in Africa.

The event, themed “ICON at Six: The Future Franchise in Africa’s Defense Technology,” underscored the critical need for collaboration, innovation, and self-reliance in addressing the continent’s complex security challenges.

“As warfare and defense are rapidly evolving, it is imperative that we remain at the forefront of technological advancement,” Musa stated.

He stressed that as African nations continue to confront threats to peace and stability, regional cooperation and enhanced defense capabilities are essential.

Musa also highlighted the necessity of developing indigenous production capacities to strengthen Africa’s military-industrial complex.

“There is a growing imperative to fully develop our indigenous production capacity and strengthen our military-industrial complex,” he noted.

He added that the conference serves as a crucial platform to share ideas, promote innovations, and create opportunities for DICON and other defense industries in Nigeria.

“Over the past six decades, DICON has transformed from a modest initiative into a robust institution pivotal in manufacturing and supplying firearms, ammunition, and other defense-related equipment.

“It has also ventured into producing civilian products that contribute to Nigeria’s economic resilience. With a commitment to innovation, quality, and self-reliance, DICON has expanded its operations to include the development of military vehicles, protective gear, and various industrial products, thereby contributing significantly to Nigeria’s national development and security”, he added.

Musa further emphasized the importance of the recent DICON Bill 2023, signed into law by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in November 2023.

The new legislation, according to him granted DICON greater responsibilities and autonomy, paving the way for further advancements in Nigeria’s defense sector.