The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has called on the Federal University Dutse (FUD) to collaborate with the Ministry of Defence on conflict resolution and research into military equipment production and repair through the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON).
The Ministry’s Director of Information and Public Relations, Henshaw Ogubike, reported that during a meeting with the Vice Chancellor of FUD, Professor Abdulkarim Sabo Mohammed, and the University’s management staff in Ship House, Abuja, the Minister expressed the Ministry’s openness to partnering with FUD and other local entities in these critical areas.
He emphasized the significance of such collaborations in advancing conflict resolution studies and the development of defence hardware.
“With our DICON Bill, we are encouraging our indigenous companies to be involved in the production of weapons, ammunition, and spare parts for our military hardware,” Badaru said.
DICON is responsible for manufacturing military equipment for the Nigerian Armed Forces, aiming to achieve self-sufficiency in production, reduce dependence on foreign suppliers, and strengthen Nigeria’s defence capabilities.
The Minister praised the Vice Chancellor for his leadership and innovative contributions to the university, advocating for continued collaboration for national benefit.
In response, Professor Abdulkarim Sabo Mohammed congratulated the Minister on his achievements and highlighted his significant contributions to the university during and after his tenure as Jigawa State Governor, including the establishment of the University’s Teaching Hospital and other key projects.
“Your contributions to the development of our University as the Executive Governor of Jigawa State are enormous and unprecedented, and your continued contributions are equally valued,” Mohammed said.
