Nigerian military begins local production of DG-103 rifles to combat insecurity

The Nigerian Defence Industry Corporation, DICON-D7G, says it has assembled over 1,000 modernized DG-103 rifles in the first two months of operations at its new Kaduna production site.

The DG-103 is a locally produced, licensed version of the AK-103 assault rifle chambered in 7.62×39 mm, adapted for the Nigerian military and security forces, the manufacturer said.

Osman Chennar, CEO of DICON-D7G, announced the progress during a briefing at the corporation’s headquarters in Abuja.

“The first batch of DG-103 rifles has completed full testing and certification and meets the operational standards of the Nigerian Armed Forces,” he said.

DICON-D7G is also expanding production of drones and early‑warning counter-UAV systems to support troops on the front lines.

The corporation plans to produce up to 60 million rounds of ammunition annually, aiming to strengthen Nigeria’s defence ecosystem.

By February 2026, DICON-D7G intends to acquire a military facility in Lagos that will host a new weapons production line, warehouses, and living quarters for personnel.

The company also plans to establish a shipyard for the repair and maintenance of naval vessels.

“These projects are aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s defence industry independence and preparing the country to export defence products to other African states,” the corporation said.

The DG-103 is the first element of “Renewed Hope,” a government initiative designed to reduce import dependence and modernize the armed forces.

“The current results are only the beginning of a large‑scale transformation of the Nigerian defence sector,” DICON-D7G added.

Nigeria recently announced the development of what it described as “the first strike drone in Africa,” signalling further ambitions in local defence manufacturing.