The Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria–D7G (DICON–D7G) has rolled out its first batch of locally assembled rifles, marking a major step forward in Nigeria’s quest for defence self-sufficiency. Within just two months of commencing operations in Kaduna, the corporation has successfully produced about 1,000 units of the upgraded DG-103 rifle.
The DG-103—a licensed, locally manufactured variant of the Russian AK-103 and chambered for the 7.62x39mm M43 cartridge—has undergone rigorous testing and certification, meeting operational requirements set by the nation’s Armed Forces and security agencies.
Briefing journalists at the organisation’s Abuja headquarters, the Director of Land Systems, Innovation, Research and Development, Maj.-Gen. Mainasara Masanawa (rtd.), who spoke on behalf of CEO Osman Chennar, described the achievement as a significant breakthrough in Nigeria’s renewed drive for indigenous arms production.
Beyond small arms, Chennar revealed that DICON–D7G is also manufacturing drones and counter-drone systems equipped with early-warning technology to bolster frontline operations. With full-scale production underway, he said the corporation has set an annual output target of 60 million rounds of ammunition, signalling a major boost to Nigeria’s defence manufacturing capacity.
Looking ahead, the CEO announced that by February 2026, the corporation will acquire a military jetty in Lagos. The facility, he noted, will host a production line, warehouses and personnel accommodation—an expansion expected to enhance local capacity and position Nigeria to export defence equipment to neighbouring African countries.
According to Chennar, the current milestones represent only the first phase of broader industrialisation efforts. “Plans are also in motion to establish a shipyard at the jetty for the servicing and maintenance of naval vessels,” he said.
He reiterated that DICON–D7G remains a critical driver of the defence industrialisation component of the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope agenda, aimed at strengthening national security readiness and reducing reliance on foreign arms suppliers.
