Nigeria to host major global defence exhibition in 2026

Nigeria is gearing up to host one of the world’s largest defence events, the Africa International Defence Exhibition and Conference (AFRIDEX), scheduled to take place from October 26 to 29 next year at Eko Atlantic City, Lagos.

Organisers announced the development in Abuja last week, noting that the event will further solidify Nigeria’s position as a regional hub for defence innovation, industrial development, and security cooperation.

Speaking at a press conference, President of dmg events, Christopher Hudson, said Nigeria—Africa’s largest economy—has shown “a clear vision to position itself at the centre of the continent’s defence and security dialogue,” citing strong government support and high-level backing from the Armed Forces.

The debut edition of AFRIDEX is expected to attract more than 30,000 participants from over 100 countries, including 500 exhibiting companies, 200 expert speakers, official delegations, and national pavilions from leading defence-producing nations.

According to Hudson, the exhibition will showcase live demonstrations of next-generation military systems, along with strategic briefings designed for governments, military leaders, and defence manufacturers.

He noted that all segments of Africa’s defence sector—air, land, maritime, cyber, and space—are expanding rapidly, with defence spending reaching $52.1 billion in 2024 and projected to continue rising.

“For governments, AFRIDEX will offer access to sovereign-capability partners and solutions tailored to Africa’s operational needs. For industry players, it opens doors to the continent’s biggest buyers and procurement authorities,” he said.

Hudson described the upcoming exhibition as a significant milestone for Nigeria as the country works to strengthen its defence industrial base, boost research and innovation, and increase local production capacity.

The event is being organised in partnership with the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), led by its Director General, Major General B.I. Alaya, and a steering committee chaired by Major General John Lar.

Hudson added that the collaboration between the Ministry of Defence, DICON, and dmg events underscores a shared commitment to attract investment, build capability, and advance Africa’s defence self-sufficiency.

“We will deliver an exhibition that meets the highest global standards, draws international participation, and drives collaboration, industrial growth, and strategic dialogue,” he assured.