Nigerian Army receives 15 locally produced armoured vehicles

The Nigerian Army has taken delivery of 15 locally manufactured Vanquisher Light Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs), a move aimed at strengthening operational capacity and boosting indigenous defence technology.

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shuaibu, reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to advancing local defence production as part of efforts to enhance operational effectiveness and confront insurgency across the country.

The armoured platforms were formally handed over to the Army on March 4, 2026, marking another step in Nigeria’s push toward self-reliance in military hardware.

The vehicles were produced by the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) in partnership with Vanquish Industries Limited and the Command Engineering Depot, highlighting ongoing collaboration to strengthen local defence manufacturing.

In a statement issued by the Public Relations Officer of DICON, Captain Jafiada Chinda, the development was described as part of broader efforts to promote indigenous production of military equipment in Nigeria.

Represented at the handover ceremony by the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), Major General Bamidele Alabi, the COAS described the delivery as a major milestone in the country’s pursuit of self-sufficiency in defence production.

According to Shuaibu, strengthening local defence innovation is crucial to improving combat readiness and maintaining operational superiority, especially in Nigeria’s complex security environment.

He explained that platforms such as the Vanquisher Light APC were specifically designed to address Nigeria’s unique operational challenges while enhancing the Army’s ability to respond to emerging security threats.

The Army chief also noted that producing military equipment locally would help reduce capital flight, stimulate the national economy and reposition the Armed Forces of Nigeria toward greater self-sufficiency.

Shuaibu added that the handover ceremony represented the beginning of several milestones in the Army’s ongoing efforts to promote homegrown military technology and innovation.

He further urged DICON to sustain its commitment to research, development and the production of high-quality military hardware capable of meeting global standards.