The Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) has entered a new phase of transformation with the assumption of office by Major General Ibrahim Babatunde Alaya as the 25th Director General on 30 April 2025.

A seasoned and highly accomplished senior officer of the Nigerian Army, Major General Alaya brings to the helm a wealth of experience, technical expertise, and tested leadership. A mechanical engineer by training, his appointment signals a renewed commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s defence industrial base through indigenous innovation and operational excellence.

A proud alumnus of the Nigerian Defence Academy (43 Regular Course) and the prestigious United States Military Academy, West Point (Class of 1997), Major General Alaya holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering. This strong academic foundation has consistently underpinned his remarkable career in military engineering, logistics, and defence manufacturing.

Throughout his distinguished service, Major General Alaya has held pivotal command, staff, and instructional positions in the Nigerian Army. Most notably, as Commander of the Command Engineering Depot, Kaduna, he led groundbreaking projects in the refurbishment, rebuilding, and production of military platforms—significantly enhancing the operational capability of the Armed Forces.

Promoted to the rank of Major General in December 2023, his rise is a testament to professionalism, integrity, and unflinching dedication to national service.

As Director General of DICON, he assumes the critical responsibility of steering Nigeria’s premier defence manufacturing corporation. With DICON playing a central role in the production of arms, ammunition, and military-grade equipment for the Nigerian Armed Forces and paramilitary agencies, his leadership is expected to usher in a new era of technological advancement, self-reliance, and industrial growth.

A native of Ilorin, Kwara State, Major General Alaya is widely respected in both military and civil circles. His rise has been a source of pride for his community and inspiration to aspiring officers across the country.

Peers and colleagues across the Armed Forces describe him as a visionary officer—disciplined, innovative, and driven by results. His engineering insight, strategic foresight, and doctrinal approach to leadership continue to shape outcomes within the Nigerian Army’s technical corps and beyond.

With Major General Ibrahim Babatunde Alaya at the helm, DICON is poised to achieve greater milestones in support of Nigeria’s defence and security objectives. His tenure marks a pivotal step in Nigeria’s quest for defence autonomy, strategic resilience, and industrial innovation.