Nigeria's Commitment to Indigenous Defense Manufacturing

On a recent visit to a drone production facility in Abuja, Bello Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defence, reiterated the Nigerian government's commitment to enhancing indigenous defense manufacturing under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu. During his tour of the Bright Echefu manufacturing plant located in Kuje, Matawalle highlighted the importance of prioritizing local companies in the procurement process, stating that the government recognizes the necessity of allowing these companies to grow.

He urged local manufacturers to expand their product lines, particularly in arms and ammunition, to reduce Nigeria's reliance on foreign military hardware. The minister expressed satisfaction with the facility's operations, which include the production of indigenous drones for intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and combat purposes.

He noted that the drones are entirely locally produced with no foreign involvement. Matawalle assured that the federal government is ready to support and patronize local manufacturers, emphasizing the need for the military to source services and products domestically.