The Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology (FMIST) has said it is committed to improving Nigeria’s military capabilities through cutting-edge technological advancements, as it sets to collaborate with the Ministry of Defence.
This collaboration was disclosed during the inaugural annual seminar and exhibition organised by the Defence Research and Development Bureau (DRDB), which brought together research institutions, private sector stakeholders and government officials to explore the future of defence innovation.
Speaking about the seminar which was themed ‘Enhancing Synergy in Research and Development Towards a Robust Military Industrial Complex,’ Chief Uche Nnaji, Minister of the FMIST, underscored the critical role of research and development in strengthening the country’s military capacity.
According to the Minister, the seminar will “foster collaboration between the government, academia, research institutions, and the private sector with insights from these strategic stakeholders expected to make rewarding contributions that will significantly advance DRDB’s defence technologies.”
He noted that FMIST holds a pivotal position in Nigeria’s Research and Development landscape, which has paved the way for its collaboration with the Defence Ministry.
According to the Minister, the seminar will “foster collaboration between the government, academia, research institutions, and the private sector with insights from these strategic stakeholders expected to make rewarding contributions that will significantly advance DRDB’s defence technologies.”
He explained that the FMIST will support the DRDB by creating a dynamic Research and Development ecosystem that includes defence-related technologies.
It will also expand the Defence Ministry’s capabilities in emerging fields such as quantum computing, biotechnology, and space technology, all of which have critical implications for national defence.
Nnaji also noted that the framework from the seminar will bring together resources and expertise to enhance efficiency, ensuring that the research and development activities of the DRDB match the operational needs of the armed forces. He further stressed the importance of following global best practices where military capacity has been transformed through the integration of innovation.
“Our Ministry remains committed to supporting the Defence Research and Development Bureau’s effort in promoting indigenous research capabilities and successfully fostering a homegrown military-industrial complex,” Nnaji said.
“We will work hand-in-hand with the Ministry of Defence to maximise our collective efforts and foster strategic investments in Research and Development, especially in areas like drone technology, missile defence systems and cyber defence.”
He commended the DRDB for organising the seminar, describing it as important for shaping the future of innovation in Nigeria’s defence sector.
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