Former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo has stressed the need for Nigeria to build a self-sufficient military-industrial complex, urging the local production of weapons, including an indigenous version of the AK-47.
Speaking at the National Defence College Course 33 public lecture in Abuja, he emphasized that President Bola Tinubu’s plan to establish a defence industry must be executed with urgency.
He linked national security to human security, stating that economic hardship and lack of basic necessities fuel instability.
Osinbajo also highlighted food security as a critical national priority, warning that global disruptions, such as the Russia-Ukraine war, have shown the dangers of external dependence.
He urged the government to treat food production as a strategic necessity.
On military readiness, he noted that Nigeria’s armed forces face challenges in acquiring weapons due to rising costs and political hurdles in arms procurement.
“The cost of arms has soared, and procurement delays often leave us under-equipped. A strong defence industry is no longer optional—it’s a necessity,” he said.
He called for a public-private partnership in defence manufacturing, urging the government to fund research, provide concessional capital, and prioritize local arms procurement.
Existing policies, such as the National Defence Policy of 2017, provide a foundation, but Nigeria must aim higher in weapons production, he added.
Citing private firms like Proforce, Imperium, Epail, and Innoson, Osinbajo noted that some Nigerian manufacturers already produce military hardware and export their products.
He urged the Ministries of Trade, Defence, and National Security to support joint ventures and technology transfers.
Beyond defence, he stressed that Nigeria must lead in strengthening democracy in West Africa.
“A strong, self-sufficient military industry will reinforce our sovereignty and restore confidence in democratic governance,” he concluded.
