By Hosea Parah, Abuja

In a significant development in the fight against insecurity, the Nigerian Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has received an improved version of Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs). These new APCs are equipped with advanced weapons and communication systems, enabling effective engagement with adversaries from a distance and facilitating seamless military operations.

In a brief ceremony held on May 8, 2024, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Dr Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, represented the Minister of Defence, Alhaji Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, as he handed over the documents and keys of 20 APCs to the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa.

Expressing his satisfaction with the current synergy among the services, the Permanent Secretary commended the decision to involve local manufacturers in the production of the APCs. He emphasized that this move would not only save the country a significant amount of money but also create employment opportunities for Nigerians while reducing reliance on foreign currency.

In response, the CDS thanked the Minister of Defence for this noble act and pledged to utilize the carriers optimally and judiciously. He expressed confidence that the new machines would greatly enhance ongoing operations aimed at eliminating insecurity within the country.

It is worth noting that the APCs were produced and supplied by an indigenous company based in Nigeria. Engineer Kola Balogun, the chairman of the company, highlighted that they would also provide training for the operators and offer after-purchase services such as maintenance, spare parts, and repairs. He further revealed plans to export these machines in the near future to earn foreign currency for the country.

This development signifies a significant step forward in Nigeria’s efforts to combat insecurity. With the deployment of these improved APCs, the country’s security forces are better equipped to tackle the challenges and restore peace and stability to the nation.