National Security: Army Chief Urges Youth Investment, Local Defence Production
By Anne Osemekeh, Abuja
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has urged the private sector to invest in Nigerian youths and indigenous defence manufacturing to strengthen national security, create jobs and boost economic growth.
In a statement on Wednesday, the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Col. Appolonia Aneke said the COAS made the call on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, during a visit to Equipment and Protective Applications International Limited (EPAIL) in Ogun State.
He described Nigeria’s youthful population as a strategic national asset, stressing that targeted investments in skills development, mentorship and innovation could help address security challenges, create employment and strengthen national resilience.
The COAS also emphasised the need to develop local technological capabilities to reduce dependence on foreign imports and establish a sustainable domestic defence industry. He said collaboration between the Nigerian Army, local manufacturers and the private sector would accelerate technological development and improve the operational effectiveness of security agencies.
Shaibu commended EPAIL for employing a skilled, youthful workforce to produce protective equipment for the military and other security agencies, noting that local manufacturing would enhance troop protection, promote innovation and stimulate industrial growth.
Earlier, EPAIL Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Engineer Kola Balogun, commended the COAS for sustaining military pressure on criminal elements across the country. He reaffirmed the company’s capacity to supply protective equipment to troops and highlighted the contributions of its young workforce to developing solutions tailored to the needs of security agencies.
The visit underscores the Nigerian Army’s emphasis on youth empowerment, indigenous defence production and public-private sector collaboration as key pillars of national security and technological self-reliance.
