Nigerian Army has taken delivery of locally manufactured Vanquisher Light Armoured Personnel Carriers from the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria-DICON.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt General Waidi Shaibu described the transfer of equipment as a testament to Nigeria’s capacity in the production of military hardware.
Represented by the Chief of Policy and Plans, Army headquarters, Major General Bamidele Alabi, the Army Chief noted that the vehicles would significantly enhance operational effectiveness across various theatres of operations.
According to him, previous batches of the vehicles had proved reliable during operational testing, which prompted a directive for the production of additional units for immediate deployment.
In his welcome address, Director-General of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria-DICON, Major General Babatunde Alaya said the handover marked a major step towards defence self-reliance.
He pointed out that the vehicles were designed to fit into Nigeria’s operational environment and configured for multiple missions, including troop transportation, convoy escort, reconnaissance and internal security operations.
Major General Alaya added that local production would reduce capital flight, generate revenue and create employment opportunities for Nigerian engineers and skilled workers.
Also speaking, Managing Director, of Vanquish Industries Limited, Mr Zacharia Ndiriza expressed gratitude to the Federal Government and the leadership of the Armed Forces for supporting indigenous defence manufacturing.
He reiterated the company’s commitment to research, innovation and responsible production in line with military standards.
The hand over of the Vanquisher Light Armoured Personnel Carrier Vehicles to the Nigerian Army is in collaboration with the DICON, Command Engineering Depot and Vanquish Industries Limited.
It is aimed at enhancing operational readiness and boosting indigenous defence production.
The event featured a guided tour of DICON’s production facilities and the Nigerian Army 7th Vehicle Assembly plant.
Usman Sani.
