Matawalle Engages China To Boost Defence Capabilities

The Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, is engaging a leading Chinese manufacturer of advanced anti-terrorism and high-tech equipment to enhance Nigeria’s defence capabilities.

A statement by Jeff Amaka Promise for the director, Press Ministry of Defence, said the meeting took place in China and aimed to strengthen strategic defence ties between Nigeria and China.
The statement added that the engagement was to formalise a collaboration by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Chinese firm and the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON).

“This partnership is expected to advance Nigeria’s security sector.”

Under the terms of the MoU, the Chinese company has committed to investing in Nigeria’s defence infrastructure. The partnership will include facilitating the transfer of cutting-edge defence technology to Nigeria, establishing local manufacturing capabilities for advanced military equipment, and providing technical knowledge exchange to enhance the skills of Nigerian personnel.

According to the statement, Matawalle highlighted key areas of collaboration, including the maintenance and upgrading of existing military hardware, the servicing of battle tanks, and offering military engineering services.

“Importantly, this partnership aims to extend its reach beyond Nigeria, providing military support services to neighbouring African countries and contributing to regional security and stability,” it added.

The minister emphasised that this landmark engagement significantly advances Nigeria’s defence modernisation agenda.

He further reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to building a self-reliant, technologically advanced, globally competitive military-industrial base.

In addition to these initiatives, the agreement encompasses constructing new production lines for various ammunition types, including: 7.62×51mm ball cartridges, 7.62×51mm blank cartridges, 9×19mm pistol cartridges and Machine gun ammunition.

The statement stated further that new manufacturing workshops and facilities would be established in Kaduna and Kachia, Kaduna State, to produce brass casings, bullet jackets, and other essential defence components.

“This initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision for a comprehensive renewal and strategic overhaul of Nigeria’s security and defence capabilities,” he stated.