Army lauded for research based technological advancement

Army showcases combat and support equipment at Abuja Trade Fair

Minister of Science and Technology, Dr Ogbonnaya Onu has praised the Nigerian Army for demonstrating excellence in research and innovations.

Dr Onu was speaking on Wednesday while inspecting some combat and support equipment showcased by the Nigerian Army at the ongoing Abuja International Trade Fair.

Dr Onu said; ”I am overwhelmed by what I have seen today because it gives me so much hope for our dear nation.

”For too long we have depended on other countries to meet our basic needs but with all these, we can no longer do so.”

He emphasized that one area that self reliance is critical is in national security which the Nigerian Army has consistently demonstrated.

In his remarks, Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen TY Buratai restated the commitment of the Nigerian Army in the pursuit of research based technological advancement in its mandate of defending the territorial integrity of the nation.

He praised the team of engineers who manufactured the products for their resilience and innovations without any foreign help.

”This I say lays a solid foundation for future consolidated on local production of military hardware. Similarly it will reduce our dependence on importation of defence logistics.

”The sustenance of local capacity for the production of both lethal and non-lethal military hardware rest solidly on quality manpower.” He added.

Items displayed at the fair include; light artillery urban patrol vehicles, borehole drilling, machines, Mines Resistant Ambush Protected vehicles, agricultural implements as well as uniforms and boots all locally produced by the Command Engineering Depot.

The event was attended by Principal Staff Officers, senior military and paramilitary officers as well as the business community and members of the National Assembly.