In a major step towards revitalizing Nigeria’s defence manufacturing sector, the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) has signed a $2 billion partnership agreement with SP Offshore Nigeria Limited. The agreement, formalized on Tuesday, 16 July 2025, aims to enhance local production of military hardware and reduce Nigeria’s reliance on foreign arms imports.
According to a statement issued by the Deputy Director, Public Information/Media at DICON, Lieutenant Colonel Haruna Mohammed Sani, the collaboration marks a strategic milestone in the Federal Government’s plan to achieve self-sufficiency in defence manufacturing by 2027, as outlined in the DICON Act 2023.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Director General of DICON, Major General Babatunde Ibrahim Alaya, said the partnership would strengthen Nigeria’s defence infrastructure and position the country as a key player in the regional defence market.
“This historic collaboration is a transformative step toward achieving Nigeria’s vision of a robust military-industrial complex,” General Alaya stated. “With SP Offshore’s advanced technological expertise and strong backing from international investors, we are confident of producing world-class defence equipment locally, while also enhancing security across West Africa.”
General Alaya further noted that the partnership would drive job creation, technological advancement, and support the nation’s armed forces through the localized production of ammunition, small arms, drones, and other critical military assets. He expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for signing the DICON Act 2023, which provides the legal framework for such partnerships. He also acknowledged the unwavering support of the Honourable Minister of Defence, Minister of State for Defence, Chief of Defence Staff, and Service Chiefs.
Also speaking at the event, Group Chief Executive Officer of SP Offshore Nigeria Limited, Mr. Obafemi Adekunle, affirmed the company’s commitment to establishing cutting-edge production facilities in Nigeria.
“Our goal is to develop state-of-the-art manufacturing and assembly lines for ammunition, small arms, radars, drones, biometric systems, and other modern defence technologies tailored to the operational needs of Nigeria’s armed forces and security agencies,” Mr. Adekunle said.
SP Offshore Nigeria Limited is a globally recognized defence technology firm, known for its innovation in drone systems, integrated military platforms, and high-performance weaponry designed to enhance national security and operational effectiveness.
The partnership is expected to not only boost national security but also catalyze local content development in the defence sector, transforming Nigeria into a major hub for military manufacturing in Africa.
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