By Joy Onu
The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to inter-agency cooperation, innovation, and security-driven development ahead of the African International Defence Exhibition (AFRIDEX) 2026 scheduled to hold in Lagos.
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, gave the assurance in Abuja on Tuesday when he received a delegation led by Major General UM Alkali, Deputy Chairman of the DICON Team on the AFRIDEX Steering Committee, who briefed him on preparations for the international defence and security exhibition.
Alkali disclosed that AFRIDEX 2026, scheduled for October 26 to 29 at Eko Atlantic City, will bring together global defence stakeholders, innovators, and policymakers to showcase advancements across land, air, maritime, space, and cyber domains, with expected participation of thousands of local and international attendees. The event is being organised with support from the Federal Government through the Ministry of Defence in collaboration with the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON).
Tunji-Ojo described the initiative as a strategic platform for strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture, stressing that meaningful progress in the sector depends on collaboration rather than institutional isolation. He urged stronger cooperation among security and intelligence agencies, warning against territorial competition.
The Minister also commended AFRIDEX for its innovation focus, particularly its potential to showcase young Nigerian talents in cybersecurity and digital technology, while emphasising the need to connect research outputs with investment and market opportunities to drive economic growth.
He further advised that AFRIDEX should become an annual event, noting that sustained editions would improve outcomes over time, and called for improved visa facilitation through a dedicated support desk to ease entry for international participants expected at the exhibition.
Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to partnership aimed at positioning Nigeria as a hub for defence innovation, security cooperation, and global engagement.
