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The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Defence. The pact marks a crucial step towards enhancing Nigeria’s defence capabilities and achieving self-reliance in military hardware production.
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This partnership represents a significant shift in Nigeria’s efforts to strengthen its defence infrastructure through indigenous innovation and technological advancement, contributing to the broader goals of national security and economic development.
During the signing ceremony in Abuja, NASENI’s Executive Vice Chairman, Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, underscored the importance of the Military Industrial Complex (MIC) as both a strategic initiative and a national imperative. He emphasized that, in an increasingly complex global security environment, it is essential for Nigeria to develop the capacity to address emerging threats with homegrown solutions.
“Today, we are embarking on a journey that will redefine Nigeria’s defence landscape and secure our nation’s future,” said Halilu.
“This partnership between NASENI and the Ministry of Defence is a testament to our commitment to harness Nigeria’s scientific and engineering expertise in the service of national defence.”
With its proven track record in research, development, and manufacturing, NASENI is positioned as a key player in establishing the MIC. This new Military Industrial Complex will serve as a hub for developing, producing, and maintaining military equipment, from small arms to advanced defence systems. The project aims to create a robust ecosystem that supports the Nigerian Armed Forces’ needs while fostering the growth of local industries, thereby reducing reliance on foreign imports.
“This MoU represents the beginning of a long-term collaboration aimed at enhancing our defence capabilities through innovation and indigenous production,” Halilu continued. “Our goal is to ensure that our military is equipped with the best tools to defend our nation, and through this partnership, we will lay the foundation for a self-reliant defence industry that will also contribute to Nigeria’s economic growth.”
Halilu assured the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, that NASENI is fully committed to making the vision of a Nigerian Military Industrial Complex a reality. “We are ready to work tirelessly to ensure that the vision of a Nigerian Military Industrial Complex becomes a reality. We owe it to our nation, to our Armed Forces, and to the generations yet unborn,” he said.
The event also saw the attendance of other key stakeholders, including the Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Abubakar Audu, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, and senior officers of the Nigerian Armed Forces
