By SUMAILA OGBAJE

The Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria–D7G (DICON–D7G), has successfully assembled about 1,000 units of the upgraded “DG-103” rifle in two months of start of operations in Kaduna.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the DG-103 is a locally licensed version of the reliable Russian Kalashnikov AK-103 assault rifle, chambered for the 7.62x39mm M43 cartridge.

The Chief Executive Officer of DICON-D7G, Mr Osman Chennar, disclosed this while briefing newsmen at the company’s headquarters in Abuja.

The Director, Land Systems, Innovation, Research and Development at DICON-D7G, retired Maj.-Gen. Mainasara Masanawa, briefed newsmen on behalf of the CEO.

Chennar said it was a major breakthrough in the renewed push for local arms production in Nigeria.

He said all rifles in the first batch had passed rigorous testing and certification, meeting operational standards of the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies.

Chennar added that the company was simultaneously producing drones and anti-drone systems equipped with early-warning capabilities to support frontline troops.

“With full operations now underway, our target is to produce 60 million rounds of ammunition annually, reaffirming the company’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s defence ecosystem,” he said.

Chennar revealed that the organisation would by February 2026 acquire a military jetty in Lagos, adding that the facility would host a production line, warehouses and accommodation for personnel.

He said the acquisition would significantly scale up local capacity and open new windows for exporting defence equipment to neighbouring African countries.

According to him, the milestones represent only the beginning of broader efforts to deepen self-reliance and enhance national security readiness.

“Plans are also in motion to establish a shipyard at the jetty for the servicing and maintenance of naval vessels.

“DICON–D7G is a central player in the defence industrialisation component of the Renewed Hope agenda,” he said. (NAN)