By Ladi Dapson
The Managing Director of Vanquish Industries Limited, Mr. Zach Duwa, has reiterated that the highly anticipated Vanquisher Light Combat Vehicle will help tackle security challenges and improve operational efficiency in Nigeria’s defence sector.
Speaking during the commissioning event in Kaduna, Duwa emphasised that the vehicle represents vision, discipline, and the potential of African industries to deliver world-class defence solutions.
The Vanquisher, built on the principles of protection, mobility, and adaptability, is designed to meet modern security challenges.
Duwa also expressed appreciation to the Nigerian government for its continuous patronage and unwavering commitment to supporting locally manufactured products, noting that the confidence shown in indigenous capabilities continues to inspire excellence.
“This moment represents more than the unveiling of a platform. It reflects vision, discipline, and the firm belief that African industry can design and manufacture world-class defence solutions,” he said.
He explained that the vehicle was built on three core principles: Protection—ensuring the highest levels of safety and survivability for those who operate it; Mobility—delivering agility and dependable performance across diverse terrains; and Adaptability—providing a modular platform capable of fulfilling multiple mission roles.
“From the very beginning, our mission has been clear: to deliver reliable, mission-ready, and technologically advanced systems suited to modern security challenges. The Vanquisher embodies that commitment.
“This achievement would not have been possible without strong leadership and institutional support. We express our profound gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his steadfast commitment to strengthening indigenous defence manufacturing,” he noted.
Duwa also commended the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) for providing the enabling environment that allowed the joint venture partnership to thrive, noting that the collaboration demonstrates the power of strategic cooperation in advancing national industrial capacity.
“Today is about more than technology. It is about sovereignty, resilience, job creation, and confidence in our ability to innovate and manufacture at the highest level.
“As these vehicles enter service, we remain committed to responsible production, strict regulatory compliance, and the ethical stewardship of defence technology. Their purpose is clear: to support lawful operations, enhance security, and protect communities.
“This commissioning marks the beginning of an even greater journey. Vanquish Industries Limited will continue to invest in research, innovation, and advanced manufacturing to strengthen our role as a trusted defence partner,” he declared.
Also speaking, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, commended the production of the Vanquisher Light Combat Vehicles by an indigenous manufacturer.
Shaibu, who was represented by the Chief of Policy and Plans, Army Headquarters, Major General Bamidele Alabi, said the Kaduna-based manufacturer demonstrated ingenuity in producing climate-friendly combat vehicles to boost military operations in different parts of the country.
He also appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for initiating policies aimed at encouraging local manufacturers and enhancing operational effectiveness and efficiency within the armed forces.
