Samuel Bello, Abuja
The Federal Government has said its decision to locally design, produce and use goods for military operations would save the country N20 billion annually.
This was disclosed at the weekend, in Abuja, when the Nigerian Institute of Leather and Science Technology (NILEST) and Defence Research and Development Bureau (DRDB) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in the field of research and development of military footwear of the Armed Forces for national security.
Permanent Secretary of the Science and Science Technology Ministry, Bitrus Nabasu, said the MoU will provide the platform for exchange of technical knowledge and experience acquired in the design, production and use of goods for military operations.
Nabasu added that the initiative will also help in the effective exploitation of natural resources.
He also said that the Mou is also expected to strengthen collaborations in technical development in the goods related to the military and the setting up of a production line for military footwear.
In his remarks, Director General of Course I Defence Research and Development Bureau, Air Vice Marshal Jomo Osahor, said the singing of the MOU will save Nigeria N20 billion annually from the cost of importing military shoes.
AVM Osahor said it will also help to track insecurity, provide employment, and build capacities of people towards national development.
He added that it will provide the platform for easy modification to suite every situation in view of the fluid nature of the battle field.
Earlier, NILEST Acting Director-General, Dr. Eucharia Oparah, said the bilateral partnership is expected to revive the nation’s economy, reduce capital flight, improve security, create employment and wealth; as well as promote Made-in-Nigeria goods.