The Defence Headquarters has ordered a thorough investigation into the recent explosion at the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) factory in Kurmin Gwari, Kaduna, which occurred on Saturday, September 20, 2025.
The blast claimed the lives of two people, including a military officer, and left four others critically injured.
Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, Director of Defence Information, assured the public that the situation is under control, saying, “We are conducting a full investigation to determine the cause of the explosion. The safety of the surrounding community is our top priority.” He also extended condolences to the families of the deceased and wished the injured a speedy recovery.
According to DICON’s Public Relations Officer, Maria Sambo, the explosion was linked to expired materials stored in old bunkers at the Ordnance Factory disposal pit. “The blast occurred at around 10:00 am during routine handling of expired raw materials, including ammonium nitrates, primer caps, and propellants, which had exceeded their lifespan,” Sambo explained.
Residents near the factory reported that the explosion was so powerful it shook nearby buildings, causing panic. Eyewitnesses confirmed that the blast occurred during gunpowder production for arms manufacturing. The injured were initially treated at St. Gerard Catholic Hospital in Kakuri before being transferred to the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital in Kaduna for further care.