Federal Government Forms Panel to Investigate Deadly Kaduna DICON Factory Explosion

The Federal Government has set up a committee to launch a full-scale investigation into the fatal explosion that rocked the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) factory in Kaduna on Saturday, September 20, 2025. The blast, which sent shockwaves through the surrounding community of Kurmin Gwari, resulted in the tragic death of one DICON staff member and caused injuries to several others.

In an official statement released by DICON’s Public Relations Officer, Maria Sambo, the corporation confirmed that the incident occurred at its Ordnance Factory disposal pit. The explosion happened during the final phase of a systematic and controlled destruction of expired ordnance materials, which had been ongoing since July 2025. The materials, which included highly volatile substances such as ammonium nitrate, primer caps, and propellants, were being disposed of after exceeding their shelf life.

The victims of the explosion were immediately rushed to the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital in Kaduna for urgent medical attention. While the DICON management expressed deep condolences to the family of the deceased, they also moved to assure the public, especially residents in nearby communities, that the situation was under control and there was no further threat.

The establishment of the new government committee underscores the gravity of the incident. Its core mission is to thoroughly investigate the immediate and remote causes of the explosion and to make recommendations that will prevent any future recurrence of such a disaster. This move comes as the nation awaits a comprehensive report on the safety standards and operational protocols at the vital defense facility.