By Albert Akota
The African military market is getting its first look at the purpose-built Ikri Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC) range at the Armoured Vehicles West Africa Conference, taking place in Abuja from June 30 to July 2.
Speaking in Abuja yesterday, the Director, Mekahog Limited, Mr. Franklin Obinna Ohakim, said that the hi-tech ballistic and landmine protected all-terrain vehicle has been specially developed to suit the stringent field requirements of the Nigerian Police Force.
Manufactured by South-African based DCD Protected Mobility and sole distribution in West Africa, Mekahog Limited in Abuja, DCD Protected Mobility, recognises Africa as a key emerging market and is committed to support the growing defence sectors in the region.
“As Africans, we understand the continent and the specific requirements of its people. With a solid track record of purpose-built military vehicular solutions, we are in an ideal position to respond together with Mekahog which has well-established relationships within the African defence sector.
“The collaboration between Mekahog and DCD Protected Mobility will provide the level of sustainable local support that is required to take the defence sector to the next level in Africa,’’ he said.
With Mekahog’s sales of the Ikri enjoying steady growth, DCD Protected Mobility is poised to implement a comprehensive support programme in Nigeria that will see maintenance and repair facilities for land-based military vehicles opened.
The company also intends to roll out an assembly operation, which will result in job creation and see technology transfer and skills development programmes being implemented.
These initiatives will be implemented in a phase approach, starting with the supply of partially assembled units or Semi Knock Down (SKD) kits, and progressing towards building the hulls and ultimately performing complete assembly of the Ikri APC in Nigeria.
Mekahog Limited was incorporated in Nigeria in 1993. The company, which has built an enviable reputation in the defense industry, is versatile in undertaking complex, technical projects.
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