By ZAKAA LAZARUS
The Nigerian Army has taken delivery of 15 locally manufactured Vanquisher Light Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen indigenous defence technology and improve operational capabilities.
A statement signed on Tuesday by the Public Relations Officer, DICON Captain Jafiada Chinda said the handover ceremony took place on March 4, 2026, with the vehicles produced by the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) in partnership with Vanquish Industries Limited and the Command Engineering Depot.
Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shuaibu, reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to promoting locally developed military equipment as a strategic approach to enhancing combat effectiveness and addressing Nigeria’s security challenges.
Represented at the event by the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), Major General Bamidele Alabi, the COAS described the delivery of the vehicles as a significant step toward Nigeria’s goal of achieving self-reliance in defence production. He noted that indigenous defence innovation remains essential for maintaining combat readiness and operational superiority, especially within Nigeria’s unique security environment.
According to him, platforms such as the Vanquisher Light APC are designed to address operational challenges while strengthening the Army’s ability to respond to emerging threats.
Lieutenant General Shuaibu also stated that producing military equipment locally would help reduce capital flight, stimulate the national economy, and move the Armed Forces of Nigeria closer to greater self-sufficiency.
He described the ceremony as the first of many milestones in the Army’s ongoing drive to promote homegrown military technology and innovation, and encouraged DICON to sustain its efforts in research, development, and the production of high-quality military hardware that meets global standards.
Speaking at the event, the Director-General of DICON, Major General BI Alaya, expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, for his continued support and confidence in the corporation.
He also commended the Chief of Army Staff for his backing of the project, which he said played a crucial role in bringing the initiative to completion. Major General Alaya further called on other security agencies and sister services to prioritize and patronize indigenous defence products in order to accelerate Nigeria’s military-industrial development.
