By, Olawale Ogunbusola

 

The Nigerian Army has taken delivery of 15 locally produced Vanquisher Light Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs), marking a significant milestone in the country’s quest for self-reliance in military hardware production.

The handover ceremony, held on March 4, 2026, was attended by the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shuaibu, who reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to advancing indigenous defence technology.

Represented by the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), Major General Bamidele Alabi, the COAS described the event as a testament to Nigeria’s growing capabilities in military innovation.

The Vanquisher Light APCs were manufactured by the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) in collaboration with Vanquish Industries Limited and the Command Engineering Depot.

“The platforms are specifically designed to address Nigeria’s operational challenges and strengthen the Army’s capacity to respond effectively to evolving threats,” Alabi said.

The COAS emphasized that local production of military equipment would reduce capital flight, stimulate the economy, and enhance the Armed Forces’ self-sufficiency.

DICON Director-General, Major General BI Alaya, expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support and confidence in DICON.

He urged security agencies to prioritize indigenous defence products to accelerate Nigeria’s military-industrial growth .