THE Nigerian military has launched a full-scale investigation into the powerful explosion that rocked the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) facility in Kaduna, leaving one person dead and several others injured.
The incident, which occurred on the morning of Saturday, September 20, 2025, sent shockwaves through the surrounding communities as residents fled in panic, fearing a major security breach.
Witnesses described the blast as “terrifying and disturbing,” with the sound reverberating across parts of Kaduna metropolis.
According to a statement by Brigadier-General Tukur Gusau, Director of Defence Information obtained by News Point Nigeria, the explosion occurred during a routine exercise to dispose of expired military ordnance and hazardous substances stored at the facility.
“Preliminary reports indicate that the explosion took place while specialists were concluding the destruction of remaining quantities of expired materials, including Ammonia Nitrates, Primer Caps, Propellants, and other hazardous substances,” the statement read.
The military confirmed one fatality from the incident, while several other personnel sustained injuries and are currently receiving treatment at the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital, Kaduna.
“The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, has extended condolences to the families and friends of the deceased and wished a swift recovery for those injured,” Gusau said.
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) assured Kaduna residents and Nigerians at large that the situation is under control, stressing that there is “no cause for concern” and that strict operational safety standards remain in place at DICON.
“The surrounding community has been reassured that DICON maintains strict operational safety standards. The industry remains committed to upholding safety protocols and will conduct a thorough investigation to prevent future incidents,” the statement added.
In response to the tragedy, the military high command has ordered an immediate and comprehensive investigation to determine the root cause of the explosion and prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Sources told this newspaper that a joint panel of safety experts, military engineers, and explosives specialists is expected to arrive at the Kaduna facility in the coming days to examine safety lapses, review standard operating procedures, and recommend reforms.
The Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria, established in 1964, is the country’s premier defence manufacturing and research facility. Its mandate includes the production of small arms, ammunition, explosives, and other ordnance critical to Nigeria’s national security.
