Epail Nigeria, Equipment Protective Applications International Limited, a prominent Nigerian defence company, has supplied 20 light combat vehicles to the Nigerian Army. In a ceremony attended by the Minister of Defence’s representative and the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Epail handed over these locally produced APCs equipped with advanced weapons and communication systems to the Nigerian Army.
A statement by the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau said in a brief ceremony held on 8th May 2024, the representative of the Minister of Defence and the Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Defence, Dr Ibrahim Abubakar Kana handed over the documents and keys of 20 APC to the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa.
According to Brigadier General Gusau, the APCs are improved versions with improved weapons and communication systems that can locate adversaries from a distance and engage them effectively, while allowing for seamless military operations. The Permanent Secretary during the handing over, said he is happy with the current synergy existing among the services while describing the consideration for contracting local manufacturers for the production of the APCs as a welcome development.
Epail’s chairman, Engineer Kola Balogun, said the company will also train operators and provide after-purchase services like maintenance, spare parts, and repairs. According to him, the company will soon start exporting these machines to bring foreign investment to the country.
Epail first showcased the locally produced light armoured vehicle at the 24th edition of the Nigerian Army Combat Support Services Training Week at Abalti barracks in Lagos State. The vehicle features a remotely operated weapons system on the hull of the vehicle. It is not yet certain the maker of the ROWS.
In September 2021, Epail entered an agreement to locally produce bulletproof vests and other military equipment with the Nigerian Government. Earlier in 2018, Epail and Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria, DICON, a parastatal under the Ministry of Defence entered into a strategic agreement for the production of defence equipment. This April, Epail announced the commencement of serial production of the reverse-engineered Chinese Dong Feng CSK-131 Mengshi armoured vehicle. This move is set to bolster the Nigerian military’s operational readiness and reduce dependence on foreign military equipment. The recent unveiling of a domestically manufactured light-armoured vehicle underscores Nigeria’s commitment to self-reliance and technological advancement in the field of defence.
The Dongfeng CSK131 is a Chinese light-protected vehicle. It was developed by Dongfeng company as a private venture. The vehicle was also called the Mengshi (Chinese for brave soldier). The CSK131 is used by China’s armed forces. In around 2020, hundreds of these armoured vehicles were exported to Nigeria. The acquisition followed a pattern of procuring certain hardware from China. Over the past few years, the Nigerian government has turned to Chinese defence companies for land-based systems and armed unmanned aerial vehicles.
Nevertheless, the move towards local armoured vehicle production aligns with Nigeria’s strategic goal of reducing reliance on foreign suppliers for its defence needs. Historically, many nations, including Nigeria, have been heavily dependent on imports to fulfil their military equipment requirements. However, this reliance can be a vulnerability in times of geopolitical uncertainties or disruptions in supply chains. Local production offers a solution by providing greater control over the production process and supply timeline.
The Nigerian army is currently facing a number of security challenges, including the Boko Haram insurgency and the farmer-herder conflict. The localized Dongfeng CSK131 and other locally produced armoured vehicles will be an important asset in the fight against these challenges. The production of the localized Dongfeng CSK131 is a step in the right direction for the Nigerian defence industry. It is a sign that Nigeria is committed to developing its own military capabilities and reducing its reliance on imported weapons.
By manufacturing these vehicles within its borders, Nigeria can enhance its national security and respond more effectively to emerging threats. Local production facilitates quicker procurement, maintenance, and modification processes, ultimately leading to a more agile and prepared military force.