Army unveils locally built combat vehicles in Kaduna

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, on Wednesday unveiled a fleet of locally manufactured Vanquisher Light Combat Vehicles in Kaduna, describing the development as a boost to Nigeria’s defence capacity.

The vehicles were produced by Kaduna-based Vanquish Industries Limited.

Shaibu, who was represented at the ceremony by Maj. Gen. Bamidele Alabi, Chief of Policy and Plans at Army Headquarters, said the project demonstrates Nigeria’s growing ability to design and produce military equipment suited to its security environment.

He said the vehicles would improve troop mobility, protection and operational effectiveness across different terrains. According to him, the initiative reflects increasing confidence in local defence manufacturing and aligns with national efforts to strengthen indigenous production.

The Army chief also commended Bola Tinubu for policies aimed at expanding domestic manufacturing in the defence sector, noting that government support for local content is delivering measurable outcomes.

Managing Director of Vanquish Industries Limited, Zach Duwa, described the unveiling as significant for both the company and the country’s industrial sector.

Duwa said the Vanquisher Light Combat Vehicle was developed with a focus on protection, mobility and adaptability. He explained that the platform is designed to enhance crew safety, maintain performance across varied terrain and support multiple mission roles through a modular structure.

He acknowledged support from the Presidency, the Minister of Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff and service chiefs, as well as the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria for fostering partnerships that strengthened local production capacity.

Duwa added that the company would continue to invest in research and advanced manufacturing, stating that operational requirements and troop safety guided the vehicle’s development.