By Musa Bakare
The Federal Ministry of Steel Development is leading a significant initiative aimed at bolstering Nigeria’s self sufficiency in defense production and industrial capabilities. Collaborating with the Ministry of Defence and the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), this initiative seeks to enhance domestic manufacturing of military hardware, essential for the Nigerian Armed Forces and various security agencies.
The Minister, Prince Shaibu Abubakar Audu announced that a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) is being drafted to formalize this collaboration, pending approval from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. This partnership transcends immediate production objectives and envisions the establishment of a comprehensive military industrial complex in Nigeria.
The key component of this initiative is the rehabilitation and revitalization of the Ajaokuta Steel Company, which serves as the cornerstone for enhancing local steel production. By integrating military hardware production within the Ajaokuta complex, Nigeria aims to reduce its dependency on imports, particularly the estimated $4 billion worth of steel imported annually, which exerts pressure on foreign exchange reserves.
The anticipated revival of this steel company is expected to support not only the military sector but also the broader manufacturing landscape. Strengthening the steel industry will lay the groundwork for economic growth, with the government’s renewed aspirations to achieve a $1 trillion economy by 2030.
This focus on creating a self sufficient defense industry aligns with the Nigerian government’s broader agenda of fostering economic resilience and growth. Reducing import dependency and create jobs, stimulate local manufacturing, and enhance national security.
In addition to military hardware, the Federal Ministry of Steel Development plans to collaborate with local and international automobile manufacturers to produce made in Nigeria vehicles and railway infrastructure. This initiative aims to utilize locally sourced steel and encourage the establishment of automobile assembly plants in Nigeria, thereby boosting the local economy and reducing import costs.
The production of railway gauges, coaches and spare parts is critical as Nigeria expands its rail network, strengthening the supply chain for rail construction materials to complement transportation infrastructure development while significantly reducing foreign dependency.
The comprehensive efforts by the Ministry, in strategic partnership with other key sectors of the economy, herald a transformative era for Nigeria, positioning the country as a hub for manufacturing and defense hardware production. These initiatives aim to bolster economic stability, create employment opportunities, and reinforce national security.
As Nigeria strives toward self sufficiency in defense production and enhances its manufacturing capabilities, the revival of the steel sector is set to play a pivotal role in this journey. The integrated approach of utilizing locally produced steel for both military and civilian applications aims to elevate Nigeria’s standing in Africa’s industrial and automotive landscape.
These crucial initiatives point toward a promising future for Nigeria’s industrial growth. The country is taking essential steps toward a more resilient and economically independent future, ensuring that local industries thrive while addressing national security needs. The push to develop local automobile and railway industries using domestically produced steel aligns with the government’s broader economic goals. These efforts promise job creation, stimulate manufacturing, and position Nigeria as a key player in Africa and the global industrial landscape.
– Hon Musa Asiru Bakare, Member, Tinubu Support Group (TSG), writes from Lokoja, Kogi State Capital.
