The Nigerian Army has acquired 15 locally manufactured Vanquisher Light Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) as part of its ongoing commitment to strengthening indigenous defence technology and enhancing operational effectiveness in the fight against insurgency.

The armoured platforms were produced by the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) in collaboration with Vanquish Industries Limited and the Nigerian Army’s Command Engineering Depot.

Speaking during the ceremony to take delivery of the APCs, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Waidi Shaibu, described the development as a major milestone in Nigeria’s pursuit of self-reliance in military hardware production.

Represented by the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), Bamidele Alabi, the army chief said indigenous defence innovation remains vital to achieving combat readiness and operational superiority, particularly within Nigeria’s complex security environment.

According to him, platforms such as the Vanquisher Light APC are specifically designed to address the country’s unique operational challenges while strengthening the Army’s ability to respond effectively to evolving security threats.

Shaibu further noted that local production of military equipment would significantly reduce capital flight, stimulate the national economy, and reposition the Armed Forces of Nigeria towards greater self-sufficiency.

He described the delivery ceremony as the first of many milestones in the Army’s sustained drive to promote homegrown military technology and innovation, urging DICON to sustain its momentum in research, development, and the production of world-class military hardware.

In his remarks, the Director-General of DICON, B. I. Alaya, expressed appreciation to the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Bola Tinubu, for his continued support and confidence in DICON as a key pillar of Nigeria’s military-industrial advancement.

Alaya also commended the Chief of Army Staff for his consistent backing, which he said played a crucial role in bringing the project to fruition. (The Guardian)

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