Danjuma Amodu | February 21, 2026
The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle has visited Briech UAS, a Nigerian-based unmanned aerial systems manufacturer in Kuje, Abuja, and reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting local defence innovators. During the visit, the Minister inspected various Nigerian-made drone models, including the Damisa Combat Drone, Arsenio BFLY, Xander Reconnaissance Drones, and attack drones capable of neutralizing terrorists in remote areas.
Briech UAS, a 100% locally-owned company, employs only Nigerian staff and has strong patronage from the Nigerian military. The company’s Chairman, Dr. Bright Echefu showcased the drones, highlighting their capabilities and local production.
The Minister praised Briech UAS’s operations, describing them as “highly impressive.” He encouraged the company to expand its operations, particularly in arms and ammunition production, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s agenda to reduce dependence on foreign arms and ammunition production.
“We encourage you to go into the manufacturing of arms and ammunition, it is part of what the President is looking at, to reduce importation, to make sure that whatever we can produce locally, we do so,” he said.
The Minister’s visit underscores the Federal Government’s efforts to promote local manufacturing and reduce reliance on imported defence equipment.
“The Nigerian government has recognized the need to allow local companies to grow. There are policies in place to assist indigenous companies,” he said.
The Minister also highlighted the importance of local production, stating, “The Federal Government has made it mandatory that before looking outside the country, you must first look inward to determine whether there is any company in Nigeria that offers the required services or produces the products you intend to purchase.”
Dr. Echefu, the Chairman of Briech UAS, expressed appreciation for the Minister’s visit and support, saying:
“Our products are produced locally. There is no foreigner in our company; everybody is a Nigerian. We have strong patronage from the Nigerian military, and that is the reason we are growing because they believe in what we are doing.”
The visit is seen as a boost to local defence manufacturers and a step towards achieving self-sufficiency in defence production.
“The Federal Government is ready to patronize and support local manufacturers,” the Minister added.
