Emmanuel Garba
“The strength of a nation derives from the integrity of the home.” In reflecting on this, the I am compelled to express my profound appreciation for a leader whose integrity, commitment, and dedication to duty have left an indelible mark. This tribute is born out of my deep admiration for Major General Aniedi Effiong Edet’s sterling leadership, which has led to the palpable transformation of DICON, earning him the respect of both staff and industry watchers. His tenure as the 24th Director General, though spanning a remarkable 21 months, has been characterised by giant strides.
Beyond the impressive revitalisation of the Corporation, General Edet has fostered improved civil-military relations and enhanced productivity, laying a robust foundation for Nigeria’s long-awaited Military Industrial Complex. Deservedly, he was recently awarded and decorated with the Defence Administration Medal by the Chief of Defence Staff. As he steps down, I celebrate his extraordinary legacy defined by innovation, commitment, and transformational leadership, more so than merely maintaining the status quo; he reimagined and revitalised DICON, setting it on a new course toward achieving Nigeria’s long-cherished goal of defence self-sufficiency within such short time. DICON community will truly miss him, but believe that he is transiting to greater responsibilities in career and service of our nation.
Since assuming office in July 2023, it has been keenly observed that General Edet has been a catalyst for innovation and growth within DICON, breathing new life into the organisation’s strategic mission to support Nigeria’s armed forces and security architecture. On assumption, he quickly repositioned the Corporation by crafting a new vision, which is ‘to contribute significantly to National Security while Excelling in global defence markets, by delivering sustainable cutting-edge defence solutions through Research, Adaptation of Emerging Technologies, Innovative Culture and Building Strategic Partnerships.’ Under his stewardship, DICON witnessed a resurgence in local defence production capabilities, increased operational efficiency, and unprecedented drive towards self-reliance in military hardware and technology. His unprecedented feats can be gleaned from the following areas:
Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships
Among his numerous accomplishments, Major General Edet, a consummate engineer and dynamic administrator, championed revamping obsolete production equipment for optimal output. He also expanded research and development initiatives and forged crucial partnerships with both local and international stakeholders. One of the hallmarks of his tenure was the facilitation of critical partnerships with defence-related industries such as D7G, Proforce Limited, Imperium Industries, Nigerian Machine Tools, and others.
These collaborations laid the foundation for the take-off of Nigeria’s Military Industrial Complex, an enduring contribution to national security and industrialisation. In his regime, the number of collaborators increased from 19 to over 66, giving an unprecedented prospect in the global market of defence-related products. General Edet’s leadership style rested upon 5 strategic management pillars which were ‘Adopting a Business Oriented Mindset; Professionalism; Good Communication; Improved and Sustained Staff Welfare; and Building Robust Partnership within and outside Nigeria’.
These objectives galvanised his team of serving and retired DICON staff towards achieving many ambitious goals. His open-door policy and commitment to mentorship fostered a culture of innovation and professionalism within DICON, empowering young engineers, technologists, and defence specialists to contribute actively to national development through self-sufficiency.
Beyond his strategic achievements, General Edet was a leader who cared deeply about the welfare of his staff, instituting programmes aimed at improving working conditions and professional development. His tenure was not just about systems and structures, but about people, whom he considered the heartbeat of the Corporation. General Edet prioritised the welfare of DICON’s workforce through initiatives such as sustaining daily free lunch for all staff, providing improved healthcare services, and significantly upgrading the staff canteen and ICT centre.
He complemented these efforts by evolving an all-inclusive and transparent leadership through frequent engagement with management staff, durbar with junior staff and also initiated Quarterly Bulletin that bridges the communication gap between the management and the Corporation’s internal publics. This strategy fosters camaraderie and facilitates improved productivity.
Celebrating DICON @60
Under his stewardship, the Corporation celebrated DICON’s Diamond Jubilee in August 2024. During the Anniversary, DICON launched an evolution strategy and new identity based on the DICON Act 2023. This was aimed at bridging gaps in the Military Industrial Complex and repositioned the Corporation as a global player. The event led to a rebranding effort in terms of a new DICON Logo, Book Launch titled ‘Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria: Forging a Pathway to Indigenous Defence Production’. The auspicious event also witnessed the Maiden African Defence Industries Conference with the theme, ‘Future Frontiers in Africa’s Defence Technology’ as well as an international exhibition. This showcased Nigeria’s defence capabilities to the world.
General Edet led DICON’s participation in major indigenous and international exhibitions across Italy, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Jordan, South Africa, and Egypt, projecting DICON’s evolving excellence and strengthening strategic partnerships. DICON@60 Anniversary was graciously attended by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Distinguished Senator George Akume, who represented the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR. Other dignitaries include past and current Service Chiefs, past DICON Board Chairmen and Director Generals, among other distinguished guests.
Transforming Administration and Infrastructure
Under General Edet’s leadership, DICON saw an unprecedented wave of administrative and infrastructural reforms. He championed the renovation and modernisation of key facilities, including the DICON Headquarters Complex, DICON Clinic, Board Room, and residential quarters. He oversaw the construction of new structures such as a quality control administrative block at the Research and Development Centre, a library, an auditorium, and a hostel at the DICON Institute of Technology, thus fostering a robust environment for learning and innovation.
General Edet also reintroduced the staff tag, which gives all DICON staff a sense of belonging in line with international best practices. It is on record that during his watch, a record number of 270 staff were promoted in 2024, out of 320 presented to Office of the Head of Service. A culmination of DICON production activities in 2024 was celebrated in a grandeur Productivity Awards events, attended by the Honourable Minister of State for Defence on 31 January 2025, where he celebrated retiring staff and those that displayed excellent service in DICON.
Securing DICON’s Assets and Personnel
Security was paramount for General Edet. The 24th DG fortified DICON’s operations through the procurement of new vehicles, installation of advanced CCTV systems, reactivation of DICON’s electricity substation, and enhancement of perimeter security at the Ordnance Factory (ORDFAC). He also employed the services of security experts in the Corporation. These measures greatly improved the security architecture and operational readiness of the Corporation.
Boosting Logistics and Technical Capacity
General Edet initiated the installation of an independent electricity power supply and a state-of-the-art effluent treatment plant at ORDFAC. Recognising the need for modern tools, he oversaw the procurement and installation of cutting-edge machinery like a combined Turn-Mill and Laser Cutting Machine, a Wood factory training/CNC machine, which are critical for modern arms production.
Human Capacity Development: Building a New Generation of Experts
A true believer in human capital development, General Edet empowered DICON’s personnel through partnerships with professional bodies, organisation of high-level retreats, study leave opportunities, skill-building workshops and defence of innovative challenges, which was witnessed during DICON@60 Anniversary. His tenure also featured vibrant team-building events such as football competitions, promoting camaraderie and physical fitness among staff.
Innovation in Research and Development
Under General Edet’s strategic and innovative leadership, DICON made significant strides in technical innovation. Key milestones included collaborations with the Nigerian Air Force and NASENI, production of kamikaze drones with NA CED and Qhalhata, and the pursuit of partnerships with defence industries in Turkey, Jordan, and Egypt. His efforts paved the way for DICON’s entry into the global arena of advanced military technologies.
Strengthening Production Capacity
General Edet transformed DICON’s production capabilities by overseeing the manufacture of critical defence equipment. The philosophy he shared with his team was always ‘Let’s repair, clean and maximize the equipment we have, while waiting for the new ones’. This led to his launching ‘Operation All Factories Must Produce’, which ensured that the Tools Shop, Industrial Furnaces were all revamped back into operations. Consequently, thousands of rounds of ammunition for the Nigerian Army, Police, and other security agencies, production of over 1,100 AK-47 rifles, ballistic vests, helmets, and Mine Resistance Anti-Ambush Protective equipment in partnership with Imperium Industries Nigeria Limited. His leadership directly contributed to enhancing Nigeria’s defence readiness and reducing dependence on foreign arms imports.
Sustainability Through Maintenance and Innovation
Recognising that a strong foundation requires constant upkeep, General Edet ensured the regular maintenance and refurbishment of production infrastructure, transformers, logistics vehicles, and firefighting equipment, testing of Kamikaze drone and sustaining DICON’s operational efficiency for future generations.
A Lasting Legacy
General Aniedi Effiong Edet’s tenure as DG DICON will be remembered as a golden era marked by strategic foresight, courageous innovation, and an unwavering commitment to national service. He combined visionary leadership with meticulous execution, leaving behind an organisation that is stronger, smarter, and better equipped for the future. His contributions to DICON have not only strengthened Nigeria’s security architecture but have also inspired a new generation of defence industry leaders.
General Edet possesses exceptional leadership qualities, and while the community understands the exigencies of military service and the necessity of his departure, he will certainly be deeply missed. He is leaving behind big shoes that could only be filled by a similarly dedicated and hardworking DG DICON.
I, salute you, Major General Aniedi Effiong Edet, a patriot, a builder, and a true visionary leader. May your future be as illustrious as your tenure at DICON.
* Garba writes from Kaduna.
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