Abuja, Nigeria — The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) of Nigeria, General Olufemi Oluyede, has underscored the necessity of bolstering local arms production as a pivotal strategy in combating terrorism in Nigeria and the broader West African region. During the inaugural lecture of the Joint Doctrine and Warfare Centre (JDWC) in Abuja, Oluyede emphasized the advantages of indigenous manufacturing, including reduced dependence on foreign suppliers and improved operational efficiency for sustainable security.
According to Oluyede, the Nigerian Armed Forces are focusing on the advancement of local defense production through the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) and other domestic entities. He also highlighted the importance of robust border management and internal security, advocating for sustained collaboration with neighboring nations.
The CDS further emphasized the need for synergy among the Armed Forces, acknowledging that solitary — service operations are often inadequate to achieve the desired outcomes. He encouraged the Army, Navy, and Air Force to collaborate closely, leveraging their distinct capabilities. Recommendations from the JDWC lecture are set to be forwarded to the Federal Executive Council (FEC) and the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, aiming to secure wider support for implementation.
Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), echoed the call for synergy, characterizing Nigeria’s security framework as a comprehensive “whole-of-society and whole-of-government approach.”Major General A. E.
Edet, the Director General of the JDWC, noted the Centre’s progress in its first six months, emphasizing its commitment to innovation and full operationalization. The event, attended by top military officials, diplomats, and key stakeholders, marked a significant stride towards reinforcing joint military doctrine and a coordinated national response to insecurity.
Source: arise
