In alignment with the Federal Government’s strategic objective to deepen local defence industrialization and strengthen the operational autonomy of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN), the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammad Matawalle, MON, today friday, 14 March 2025, conducted an inspection of locally manufactured combat vehicles at the Ministry of Defence, Ship House, Abuja.
The Honourable Minister was received by the Chief Executive Officer of Proforce Nigeria Limited, Mr. Ade Ogundeyin, who led the minister to a technical assessment of the tactical and armoured vehicles being designed and manufactured by the Proforce Nigeria. Proforce Nigeria continues to demonstrate advanced engineering capabilities and a strong commitment to supporting Nigeria’s national defence and security architecture.
A key aspect of the inspection was the evaluation of the two (2) PF Hulk, a state-of-the-art 4×4 Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle designed and manufactured by Proforce Nigeria. Engineered for high-threat combat environments, the PF Hulk offers exceptional protection against improvised explosive devices (IEDs), ballistic threats, and ambushes—meeting the evolving demands of modern warfare.
The PF Hulk is powered by a robust YaMZ-536 turbocharged diesel engine delivering 360 horsepower, and comes with either a 6-speed automatic or 5-speed mechanical transmission. With a gross vehicle weight of 14,500 kg, 400 mm ground clearance, and an impressive operational range of up to 1,000 km, it provides unmatched mobility and survivability. The vehicles complies with STANAG 4569 Level 3a/3b protection standards and accommodates up to 10 fully equipped troops, ensuring both safety and tactical effectiveness in combat missions.
HM Matawalle expressed high satisfaction with the design, build quality, and tactical applicability of the vehicles showcased. He commended Proforce Nigeria for its cutting-edge innovation and reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to supporting indigenous defence manufacturers as a cornerstone of the Defence Industrial Policy of Nigeria (DIPN).
The Honourable Minister emphasized that Proforce Nigeria exemplifies the capacity and capability of local industry to meet the complex needs of national defence through homegrown technological solutions. As a pioneer in armoured vehicle production in West Africa, Proforce continues to expand its footprint in defence manufacturing, contributing significantly to Nigeria’s goal of self-reliance in defence procurement.
The President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led Federal Government remains unwavering in its resolve to support localized military production initiatives that bolster the operational readiness, technological independence, and warfighting capabilities of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
