Nigeria Unveils Africa International Defence Exhibition 2026, A Major Step Towards Stronger Security, Innovation, Regional Cooperation

By Anthonia N. Okwuolise

Nigeria is preparing to host one of the biggest defence and security events in Africa as the Ministry of Defence, the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) and dmg Events officially announced the Africa International Defence Exhibition scheduled to take place from 26 to 29 October 2026 at Eko Atlantic in Victoria Island, Lagos. The announcement was made on 28 November 2025 and marks a new chapter in Africa’s growing defence, technology and industrial development journey.

The exhibition comes at a time when Africa’s defence and security space is expanding rapidly. Many African countries are investing more in land, air, maritime, cyber and space technology. Governments across the continent are also paying greater attention to developing their own defence industries, building local capacity and strengthening long term partnerships that can support peace and stability.

Nigeria, being Africa’s largest economy and one of the key players in continental security, stands at the centre of this growth. With a proposed 2025 defence and security budget of 4.91 trillion naira and a steady growth in defence spending over the years, the country continues to strengthen its ability to address rising regional threats. Nigeria has been improving its counter terrorism operations, upgrading military equipment and embracing new technologies such as reconnaissance systems, unmanned aerial devices and advanced homeland security tools. All these advancements make Nigeria a natural and strategic host for an international event of this scale.

The Africa International Defence Exhibition is expected to attract a massive turnout, with over thirty thousand participants, five hundred exhibiting companies and two hundred expert speakers drawn from defence sectors around the world. Official delegations from more than one hundred countries are also expected to be in attendance. The event will showcase a wide range of defence capabilities, featuring global manufacturers, African industries and upcoming innovators who are shaping the future of defence technology.

Visitors will experience live demonstrations on air, land and sea, along with a special hosted buyer programme and a technology and strategy conference. Exhibitors and participants will have the opportunity to interact directly, explore new ideas, discuss security needs and build strong partnerships that can support long term development across Africa’s defence systems.

Speaking during the announcement, the Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Matawalle, described the exhibition as a major milestone for Africa. He noted that Nigeria remains committed to building a stronger defence sector and contributing to regional stability. According to him, the Africa International Defence Exhibition will create a valuable platform for countries to cooperate, share ideas and develop solutions that can improve safety across the continent.

Major General Babatunde Ibrahim Alaye, the Director General of DICON, also emphasized the importance of the event. He explained that the exhibition will help showcase Nigeria’s growing defence manufacturing strength and promote collaboration with international partners. He added that the platform would encourage engagement, support local industries and contribute to building a safer and more resilient African region.

Christopher Hudson, President of dmg Events, expressed appreciation for the partnership with the Federal Government, the Ministry of Defence and DICON. He noted that Nigeria’s leadership and vision for defence development places it at the forefront of Africa’s security transformation. He explained that the event will bring together leaders and decision makers who will exchange ideas, explore innovation and work toward meaningful progress for Africa’s defence community.

The Africa International Defence Exhibition is set to become a key yearly gathering for policymakers, military leaders, technology organisations, manufacturers and international partners. It will open doors for new investments, procurement opportunities, research collaborations and strategic alliances that will support Africa’s long term security goals and industrial growth.

With Nigeria hosting this major event in 2026, the country once again demonstrates its strength, leadership and commitment to building a secure, innovative and united Africa.