In an effort to reposition industrialization and support of home grown industries, President Muhammadu Buhari has today directed the military and all security agencies to henceforth procure their uniforms and other kits from the Defence Industry Cooperation of Nigeria (DICON).
Buhari gave the order during the foundation laying ceremony of DICON Research and Development Centre.
Accordingly, the centre is putting up a garment industry in collaboration with Turkish firm, the investment which is expected to be set for operation by the end of year 2020.
In his statement, “I hereby direct that the Nigeria Armed Forces, Nigeria Police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and other paramilitary and uniform agencies to procure their uniforms and relevant accessories from this factory when it becomes functional”.
Represented by the Minister of Interior, Mr Rauf Aregbesola, he directed ministers of defence, police affairs and interior to ensure strict adherence to the directive.
Aregbesola revealed the project was one of the Buhari Next Level determinations to reposition the Nigeria economy and to encourage us to imbibe the culture of consuming a locally made product to boost our economy, saying this is a product of public-private initiative through direct investment.
In his statement, Mr President is aware of the Armed forces challenges especially when it comes to procurement of military gears and kits, quality standardization is paramount especially as now we are confronted with plenty imposters as military.
This has prompted the government to set up a partnership that will make the Nigerian government regulate its product so that it does not end up in the wrong hands.
Subsequently, Buhari stressed his commitment to welcome genuine investors who are willing to invest in Nigeria, promising that the federal government has set up policies that will enhance ease of doing business through encouraging a local content act for the mutual benefit.
“This partnership is another fruitful economic relations between Nigeria and Turkish governments.” Buhari added.
