DICON and EIB Group Partner to Localize Defense Tech

The Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with EIB Group to localize the production of unmanned aerial systems and advanced military hardware. This partnership aims to develop domestic capabilities in tactical drones, ballistic protective equipment, and high-grade explosives, while also integrating software-driven intelligence systems.

The initiative is expected to reduce Nigeria's dependence on foreign defense imports, strengthen national security infrastructure, and stimulate economic growth by creating a network of local suppliers and small to medium-sized enterprises. The agreement was signed at DICON's headquarters in Kaduna, with Major General Babatunde Alaya, Director General of DICON, highlighting the transformative potential of this collaboration.

The partnership will include full technology transfer, eliminating reliance on foreign technologies, and establishing Nigeria as a leader in defense technology on the continent. Bright Echefu, Chairman of EIB Group, emphasized the critical role of this initiative in building local capacity and advancing Nigeria's defense technology ecosystem.