Young Nigerians Hold Key To Stronger Defence Industry – COAS
Princess-Ekwi Ajide
For young Nigerians working in defence manufacturing, the opportunity to turn their skills and ideas into equipment that protects troops could open new doors for employment while helping the country tackle its security challenges.
Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, says investing in the creativity and technical abilities of young people is critical to strengthening Nigeria’s national security and building a self-reliant defence industry.
Shaibu made the call on Tuesday, 27 October, during a visit to Equipment and Protective Applications International Limited (EPAIL) in Ogun State, where he commended the company for developing local expertise in the production of protective equipment for the military and other security agencies.
He urged the private sector to invest more in youth empowerment, skills development and technological innovation, noting that Nigeria’s youthful population could help drive solutions to security challenges while creating jobs and supporting economic growth.
The Army chief said greater investment in indigenous defence production would reduce dependence on foreign imports and strengthen the country’s capacity to meet the changing operational needs of the Armed Forces.
He stressed that collaboration between the Nigerian Army, local manufacturers and private businesses would accelerate technology development, improve operational effectiveness and enhance the country’s ability to protect its national interests.
Shaibu praised EPAIL for its skilled, youthful workforce, saying local manufacturing and human capital development could improve troop protection, strengthen operational readiness and stimulate industrial growth.
Earlier, EPAIL Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Engineer Kola Balogun, commended the COAS for sustaining military pressure on criminal elements across the country.
Balogun said the company had the capacity to supply protective equipment to troops, adding that its young workforce was developing solutions tailored to the operational needs of security agencies.
The visit underscores the growing importance of local manufacturing and youth skills in Nigeria’s efforts to strengthen its defence capabilities, create employment and reduce reliance on imported security equipment.
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