Bello Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defence, on Wednesday revealed that the Armed Forces of Nigeria require 200 million rounds of ammunition each year for their operations.
The cost for each round is approximately $2, according to Matawalle. He criticized past administrations for Nigeria’s failure to achieve self-sufficiency in defence production.
Matawalle made the statement during the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the Ministry of Defence, the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), and the National Agency for Science and Engineering (NASENI). The MoU outlines plans to establish an ammunition production factory in Nigeria.
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Matawalle assured President Muhammadu Buhari that DICON would commence arms and ammunition exports before the end of his four-year term. “We have been travelling all over the world, and we see how local manufacturers are developing their countries. Unfortunately, Nigeria, for 60 years, has failed to build the institutions, but that has changed, and it will continue changing, inshallah,” he stated.
He continued, “Therefore, I make a promise to Mr. President that before the expiration of his four years, DICON will be exporting its military capabilities.” Matawalle emphasized the need for support, stating, “All we need from all of you is prayers and your dedication. We shall look at it as our baby, not just for me, but for all of us.”
The minister highlighted the current demand for ammunition: “The requirement of just the military is about 200 million rounds of ammunition per annum. Put together, other paramilitaries, the police, we’re looking at about 350 million rounds of ammunition per annum.”
Khalil Halilu, Executive Vice Chairman of NASENI, described the MoU as a key step towards enhancing Nigeria’s defence capabilities and achieving self-reliance in military hardware production. He said, “NASENI has always been at the forefront of promoting innovation and technological advancement across various sectors in Nigeria. Our goal is to create a robust ecosystem that supports the armed forces and fosters local industry growth.”
Defence Minister of Steel Development, Shuaibu Audu, highlighted the potential of the Ajaokuta Steel Plant to support the Military Industrial Complex. He noted that the plant, located on approximately 24,000 hectares, has 44 production units and over 10,000 housing units, though only 3,000 to 4,000 are currently occupied.
