The House of Representatives Committee on Defence has committed to ensuring the effective utilization of resources allocated to Nigeria’s key military institutions, including the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), and the Armed Forces Command and Staff College (AFCSC) Jaji. This was emphasized by the committee’s chairman, Babajimi Benson, during an oversight visit to the institutes in Kaduna on Monday, ahead of the 2025 budget cycle.
Benson stressed the importance of ensuring that funds earmarked for these institutions contribute to upgrading their training facilities, procuring advanced equipment, and boosting research and development. He further called for transparency and accountability in how these agencies manage their operations.
“The National Assembly will provide sound legislation to strengthen Nigeria’s defence sector and ensure that allocated funds are effectively used,” Benson stated. He also assured that the committee will work closely with the institutions to ensure the Armed Forces are equipped to tackle future challenges.
Benson underscored the role of DICON in bolstering Nigeria’s sovereignty, highlighting the agency’s progress in producing locally manufactured firearms and other military hardware, which has strengthened the Armed Forces and reduced reliance on foreign imports. He emphasized the importance of innovation and research, urging DICON to focus on producing high-quality, reliable military equipment that could position Nigeria as a regional leader in defence technology and contribute to economic growth.
“The new DICON Act signed by President Bola Tinubu provides a robust legal framework to support the corporation’s goals,” Benson noted, adding that Nigeria’s evolving security landscape calls for forward-thinking and well-trained military officers. He encouraged continuous cooperation between the institutions and the committee to address challenges, ensure timely funding, and prioritize areas that require urgent attention.
Benson concluded by emphasizing the need for sustained investment, not only financially but through policy reforms, to ensure Nigeria’s military institutions remain at the forefront of military training, manufacturing, and strategic leadership.
