Kalu Advocates Local Arms Production for Nigeria's Security

Benjamin Kalu, the Deputy Speaker of Nigeria's House of Representatives, called for a significant shift in Nigeria's security strategy by advocating for the development of local arms manufacturing capabilities. He emphasized the importance of reducing dependence on imported weapons during his speech at the Nigeria People's Strategic Conference and Defence Exhibit 2026 in Abuja.

Kalu urged financial institutions to strengthen measures against money laundering, terrorist financing, and illicit financial flows that sustain criminal networks across the country. He stated that Nigeria's security challenges require a coordinated national response involving government, private sector, technology companies, and civil society.

Kalu highlighted the need to build a self-sustaining defense ecosystem capable of meeting the country's security needs, creating jobs, and reducing vulnerabilities. He also mentioned recent legislative efforts, including support for state police constitutional amendments, aimed at decentralizing police functions to improve local security responses.

Kalu reaffirmed Nigeria's resilience in the face of security and economic challenges, asserting that the nation will continue to fight for its heritage and security.