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Lagos is set to become the epicenter of Africa’s defence and security landscape as the Federal Ministry of Defence, the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) and dmg events officially announced the launch of the Africa International Defence Exhibition (AFRIDEX) 2026. The event will take place from 26–29 October 2026 in Lagos and will showcase the continent’s growing emphasis on industrial growth, capability development and regional security cooperation.
According to the organisers, AFRIDEX launch reflects Nigeria’s strategic position as one of Africa’s most influential defence powers.
With a proposed 2025 defence and security budget of ₦4.91 trillion and an average annual growth rate of 9.6 per cent in defence expenditure since 1965, Nigeria continues to modernise its military capabilities, counter-terrorism operations and adoption of advanced reconnaissance, unmanned systems, and homeland security technologies.
As Africa’s largest economy, Nigeria offers a natural host location for an international gathering connecting governments, armed forces and defence innovators.
Developed through a strategic partnership between the Ministry of Defence, DICON, and dmg events, AFRIDEX 2026 is expected to host over 30,000 attendees, 500 exhibiting companies, 200 expert speakers and official delegations from more than 100 countries.
The four-day event will feature a comprehensive showcase of defence and security capabilities, including live demonstrations across air, land, and maritime domains, on-floor theatres, a hosted-buyer programme, and a strategic and technical conference. Delegates will have the opportunity to engage directly with global suppliers, explore industrial partnerships, and develop long-term capability solutions.
Speaking at the launch, the Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Mohammed Matawalle, described the event as a key step in advancing defence cooperation across Africa. He said:
“This event represents a significant step in advancing defence cooperation and industrial growth across Africa. Nigeria is committed to strengthening its defence capability and supporting wider regional progress. By hosting the Africa International Defence Exhibition, we are creating an important environment for collaboration, innovation, and partnership that will support security and stability across the continent.”
Major General Babatunde Ibrahim Alaya, Director General of DICON, added: “The Africa International Defence Exhibition provides an important occasion to highlight Nigeria’s defence-industrial potential and to promote collaboration with international partners. It will strengthen engagement, support indigenous capability, and contribute to the shared goal of building a safer and more resilient Africa.”
Christopher Hudson, President of dmg events, said: “We are honoured to partner with the Federal Government, the Ministry of Defence, and DICON to bring the Africa International Defence Exhibition to Lagos. Nigeria’s leadership and commitment to capability development place it at the centre of Africa’s defence and security future. This event will connect leaders and decision makers with the ideas, innovation, and cooperation required to support modernisation and deliver meaningful progress for Africa’s defence and security community.”
The event also enjoys the support of top military leadership, including General Olufemi Oluyede, Chief of Defence Staff; Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, Chief of Army Staff; Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, Chief of Naval Staff; and Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, Chief of Air Staff. Major General John Lar, Chairman of the AFRIDEX Steering Committee, alongside committee members and the DICON team, were also acknowledged for their strategic guidance in bringing the exhibition to life.
AFRIDEX 2026 is designed to become an annual meeting point for policymakers, armed forces, manufacturers, technology innovators, research organisations, and international delegations. The exhibition promises to provide extensive opportunities for industrial collaboration, procurement engagement, investment, and partnership building, supporting Africa’s long-term security, capability development, and self-reliance.
