Reps seek enforcement of local content policy in defence procurement

The House of Representatives Committee on Defence has announced plans to enforce the Federal Government’s local content policy in defence procurement, aiming to increase the use of indigenous manufacturers for military equipment. This initiative was unveiled during the launch of AEGIS-X 2.0, a light tactical armoured vehicle developed by X-Shield Solutions Company Limited in Abuja. The move follows a growing emphasis on boosting domestic production within Nigeria's defence sector. The announcement came as the committee, led by Chairman Babajimi Benson, highlighted the need to curb the large financial outlays associated with importing military hardware. During the event, Benson emphasized that Nigeria could no longer afford to rely heavily on foreign imports for essential military supplies. He pointed to past documentation showing substantial expenditures on goods that could be locally produced, urging a shift toward supporting homegrown industries. The committee has long advocated for increased patronage of local defence manufacturers, arguing that such support would enhance national security while fostering economic growth. Benson revealed that the committee intends to revitalize an existing presidential directive mandating that all military institutions and government agencies prioritize locally made products whenever possible. The directive, which requires ministries, departments, and agencies to consider indigenous options before seeking foreign suppliers, has been largely dormant. The committee aims to reignite its implementation, ensuring that the Armed Forces and other critical entities engage with local producers like X-Shield Solutions. Ekeyi, representing Benson, noted that the committee's commitment to strengthening indigenous defence production has gained momentum since the passage of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria Act. He credited the successful passage of the DICON Bill to their efforts and confirmed that the President had taken all necessary steps to secure its approval. Ekeyi praised X-Shield Solutions for its contributions to the nation’s defence capabilities, stating that the company’s products were not only competitive but in some instances superior to imported alternatives. X-Shield Solutions' Managing Director, Charles Ibanga, welcomed the endorsement of AEGIS-X 2.0 as a significant step towards achieving strategic self-reliance in Nigeria’s defence sector. He explained that the armoured vehicle was specifically designed and built to meet the country’s operational needs in areas such as counter-terrorism, internal security, border protection, convoy escort, and rapid tactical response. Ibanga emphasized that the project exemplifies the potential for collaboration between the government, the military, and the private sector to establish a robust and sustainable defence manufacturing industry. He further noted that the development aligns with the Federal Government’s broader strategy to promote local manufacturing, generate skilled employment opportunities, and position Nigeria as a regional leader in defence production. Ibanga described AEGIS-X 2.0 as a representation of innovation and national pride, underscoring the country’s increasing capability to develop advanced technologies tailored to its security needs. This initiative coincides with ongoing efforts by Nigerian lawmakers and the current administration under President Bola Tinubu to bolster local defence manufacturing and reduce dependence on imported military equipment. The push for greater local involvement in defence production reflects a wider trend aimed at enhancing national sovereignty and economic independence in critical sectors. As the committee moves forward with enforcing the local content policy, the focus will remain on creating an environment conducive to the growth of Nigeria’s indigenous defence industry.