By Nkechi Eze
Nigeria has taken a bold step toward positioning itself at the heart of Africa’s defence and security innovation as the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with UK-based dmg Events to co-host the maiden Africa Defence Exhibition (AFRIDEX) in Lagos in 2026.
The historic signing took place on the sidelines of the ongoing African Chiefs of Defence Staff Summit 2025 at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, Abuja. The Director General of DICON, Major General B.I. Alaya, signed on behalf of the Corporation, while dmg Events, a global leader in organising world-class exhibitions, was represented by its Executive Vice President, Nick Ornstien.
Scheduled for 26 to 29 October 2026, AFRIDEX will be the first international defence exhibition hosted in Nigeria and is projected to become Africa’s largest defence and security gathering. The ceremony was witnessed by Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, along with several African Defence Chiefs, defence attachés, and other high-profile dignitaries from across the continent.
The four-day exhibition will bring together global leaders, innovators, and policymakers to showcase cutting-edge defence technologies and foster strategic partnerships that can transform Africa’s security architecture. From armoured vehicles, aircraft, and naval vessels to drones, weapons systems, ammunition, and other advanced defence solutions, AFRIDEX 2026 promises to set a new benchmark for collaboration in the global defence industry.
Major General Alaya described the event as “a unique platform to elevate Africa’s defence industry, foster collaboration, and strengthen Nigeria’s capacity to protect its sovereignty and support continental security.”
Beyond showcasing international innovations, AFRIDEX 2026 will serve as a springboard for African manufacturers to display indigenous technologies, enhance knowledge sharing, and explore critical partnerships that can boost local defence production. The initiative is expected to accelerate technology transfer, promote industrial growth, and enhance Africa’s reputation as an emerging force in global defence.
According to dmg Events’ Nick Ornstien, the exhibition “will not only redefine the defence and security landscape of Africa but also provide Nigeria with a platform to engage international stakeholders, attract investment, and expand its defence industry.”
The event is expected to attract a wide audience of military officials, government representatives, industry professionals, and business leaders from around the world. In addition to its security significance, AFRIDEX 2026 is projected to stimulate economic opportunities and position Nigeria as a hub for defence diplomacy and innovation in Africa.
