Abuja: The Chairman/CEO, Equipment and Protective Applications International Limited (EPAIL Nigeria), Mr. Kola Balogun, has called for stronger government support for indigenous defence manufacturers, saying local production remains critical to Nigeria’s security and industrial development. Balogun made the call on Saturday in Abuja while speaking as a panelist at the Nigerian People’s Strategic Conference and Defence Exhibition 2026.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, EPAIL is a leading indigenous security and defense manufacturing company, which specialises in producing tactical hardware like ballistic vests, armored vehicles, and surveillance systems. Balogun emphasized the need for Nigeria to deliberately support local manufacturers and fully implement the Nigeria First policy to reduce dependence on imported defence equipment and strengthen national self-reliance.
He highlighted the capacity of indigenous companies to produce defence equipment tailored to Nigeria’s unique operational environment. Balogun noted the initial challenges faced due to the restrictive legal framework governing defence production, specifically the DICON Act, which limited private sector participation. He appreciated President Bola Tinubu’s assent to the amended DICON Act, which has opened up opportunities for meaningful private sector involvement.
Balogun argued against the mindset that foreign solutions are always superior to local alternatives, citing instances where equipment designed for different operational environments was inappropriately deployed in Nigeria, thereby reducing effectiveness and increasing risks. He advocated for a private sector-led defence industry to drive defence acquisition and capability development in Nigeria, urging the government to create policies and incentives that support indigenous manufacturers.
The defence industry expert also mentioned the formation of the Defence Industrial Association of Nigeria (DIAN) to unite local manufacturers in providing solutions to operational challenges faced by the Armed Forces and other security agencies. He stressed the importance of government institutions demonstrating commitment through patronage of locally manufactured products and moving beyond mere policy declarations.
Balogun linked insecurity to weak governance structures at the grassroots level, highlighting the need for stronger local government administration to reduce poverty and enhance citizens’ confidence in governance. He suggested that local governments support community security initiatives by procuring locally produced protective equipment and security tools, which would also stimulate local manufacturing and economic growth.
Expressing confidence in Nigeria’s potential, Balogun stated that with the right policies, investments, and support for indigenous manufacturers, the country could build a self-reliant and globally competitive defence industry capable of meeting its national security needs. The conference’s theme, ‘Building a Modern Security Ecosystem: Integrating Private Sector Capacity into Nigeria’s National Security Architecture,’ underscores the importance of private sector involvement in national security.