Qatar’s Barzan Holdings seeks defence technology partnerships with Nigeria

Qatar’s defence company, Barzan Holdings, is seeking to deepen defence technology and industrial partnerships with Nigeria as the country explores solutions to its security challenges.

The company made its position known at the 2026 Africa International Defence Exhibition (AFRIDEX) in Lagos, where it showcased defence technologies and engaged Nigerian stakeholders on potential commercial, technological and industrial collaborations.

Barzan Holdings said its proposed partnerships would cover weapons and ammunition, advanced technology, military platforms, and support services.

Speaking at the exhibition, the company’s Regional General Manager for Africa and Managing Director of DICON-SUR, Engineer Thamer Al Emadi, said the event provided an opportunity to identify areas of cooperation aligned with Nigeria’s defence priorities.

He said the company was prepared to support Nigeria through the supply of defence products and services, technical expertise and industrial cooperation.

Crude rises to $107 as Qatar brokers fresh US-Iran talks

“We are here at AFRIDEX to discuss Nigeria’s defence needs and explore how Barzan Holdings can support them through the supply of modern defence products and services, as well as potential industrial and technology partnerships,” Al Emadi said.

He added that the company was open to developing solutions tailored to the operational requirements of the Nigerian Armed Forces.

Al Emadi said advanced technology was becoming increasingly important in responding to evolving security threats and meeting military operational demands.

According to the company, its capabilities extend beyond equipment supply to include training, maintenance, repair and overhaul, as well as technical support throughout the defence equipment lifecycle.

Its technology portfolio includes unmanned surface vessels, unmanned aerial vehicles for surveillance and intelligence gathering, and command-and-control systems designed to improve situational awareness and operational decision-making.

At AFRIDEX, Barzan Holdings also showcased its weapons portfolio, including the Q1 Corner rifle and its recently launched BIG556 rifles in 4.5-inch and seven-inch configurations, which are designed and manufactured in Qatar.

The company said its participation in the exhibition was aimed at strengthening engagement with Nigerian defence stakeholders and exploring opportunities to support local industry through technology transfer, industrial collaboration and solutions tailored to the country’s needs.

The 2026 AFRIDEX brings defence industry players and stakeholders together to showcase technologies and explore partnerships in response to security and defence requirements across Africa.