By: Nafiu Toyin Abdulqadri.
The Nigerian government has announced plans to set up a local ammunition manufacturing facility to meet the annual demand of 200 million rounds by the Armed Forces of Nigeria. The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, made this known on Wednesday while signing a memorandum of understanding between the Ministry of Defence, the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), and the National Agency for Science and Engineering.
Matawalle revealed that the country spends almost N600 billion (approximately $1.5 billion) annually on ammunition imports, with each round costing around $2. He emphasized the need for self-sufficiency, citing the failure to develop local institutions over the past 60 years.
The minister expressed optimism that the new facility would not only meet local demands but also enable Nigeria to export military hardware and ammunition within the next four years. He solicited prayers and dedication from stakeholders, emphasizing the project’s significance for the country’s security and economy.
The proposed facility aims to reduce Nigeria’s reliance on foreign ammunition suppliers, with the military alone requiring 200 million rounds annually. Including other paramilitaries and police, the total demand rises to approximately 350 million rounds per year.