• Set to boost local defence manufacturing, training
•CJTFs, forest guards, vigilante groups to benefit from initiative
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
DICON Gray Insignia Ltd (DGI), a strategic partner of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), has launched a locally manufactured tactical shotgun aimed at supporting state security operations and strengthening Nigeria’s defence manufacturing capacity.
The company said the new platform was developed to address the operational realities of Nigeria’s security environment, particularly as state governments increasingly invest in community-based security structures to complement federal security agencies in tackling insecurity.
In a statement in Abuja, DGI stated that the tactical shotgun platform was designed for use by government-approved security formations, including Civilian Joint Task Forces (CJTFs), forest guards, vigilante groups, community protection units, critical infrastructure protection teams and other state-backed security outfits.
The company noted that the initiative aligns with ongoing efforts to reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported defence equipment while promoting indigenous manufacturing, job creation, technical skills development and long-term industrial growth.
DGI described the platform as part of a strategy to provide locally supported security solutions that combine equipment supply with maintenance, training and technical support.
“The launch represents another step forward in Nigeria’s efforts to build indigenous defence manufacturing capability, reduce dependence on imported security equipment, and create local jobs, technical expertise, and long-term industrial capacity,” the firm stated.
It added that beyond supplying equipment, the company intends to provide state governments with direct access to maintenance services, spare parts, technical assistance and operator training, thereby reducing downtime and ensuring long-term operational sustainability.
According to DGI, effective security operations require more than the acquisition of equipment, arguing that training and human capacity development remain critical components of any successful security architecture.
To support this objective, the company said it has developed an integrated training programme covering weapons handling and safety, tactical marksmanship, armourer training, instructor development, protective security operations, leadership and security management, as well as range management and safety.
The training programmes, it said, will be delivered by former military, intelligence and security professionals with extensive operational experience in firearms instruction, protective security and national security operations.
DGI maintained that professional training helps promote accountability, responsible equipment usage and improved operational effectiveness among personnel deployed by state governments and security organisations.
“Security effectiveness is not simply about equipment. It is about providing a complete capability that includes training, maintenance support, responsible deployment, and long-term sustainability,” the company stated.
The company also linked the introduction of the platform to efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s defence industrial base, explaining that its partnership with DICON reflects the federal government’s vision of encouraging domestic defence production through collaboration between public institutions and private-sector operators.
The company argued that locally developed solutions offer several advantages over imported alternatives, including shorter maintenance cycles, lower lifecycle costs, easier access to technical expertise and products tailored to Nigeria’s unique security challenges.
DGI noted that it believes that indigenous defence-industrial partnerships can support these efforts by providing sustainable security solutions while simultaneously contributing to economic development and industrial growth.
As part of its national engagement programme, the company said it has commenced consultations with state governments, policymakers and other security stakeholders to showcase its capabilities and explore opportunities for collaboration.
The company added that it remains committed to operating within established regulatory frameworks while supporting national objectives aimed at enhancing security, promoting industrial development and building confidence in Nigeria’s indigenous manufacturing capabilities.
DICON Gray Insignia Ltd focuses on the development, assembly, supply, maintenance and training of defence and security equipment and works closely with DICON to support the growth of Nigeria’s local defence manufacturing sector.
