COAS Backs 2026 African Defence Expo, Says Event Is “National Imperative” for Nigeria’s Security Future
By Passman Akpos
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s firm commitment to advancing defence innovation, strengthening strategic partnerships and boosting Nigeria’s global military profile ahead of the African International Defence Exhibition slated for 2026.
Speaking through the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), Major General Bamidele Alabi, during a courtesy visit by the exhibition committee to Army Headquarters on Friday, 28 November 2025, the COAS described the forthcoming event as a “national imperative” that aligns squarely with Nigeria’s long-term defence diplomacy and industrial development goals.
Lt Gen Shaibu expressed satisfaction with preparations for the exhibition and assured the delegation of the Army’s full backing. He emphasised that the event would serve as a vital platform to project Nigeria’s indigenous military technologies, operational excellence and growing defence-manufacturing capabilities before the international security community.
According to him, the 2026 exhibition is fully in sync with the Army’s drive to enhance local content, deepen inter-agency synergy and modernise doctrine-based warfare capacity. He urged organisers to outline specific priority areas where the Army’s involvement would yield maximum impact, adding that his office remains open to continued collaboration and robust engagement.
Earlier, Major General Babatunde Alaya, head of the visiting delegation, briefed the COAS on progress made so far, referencing resolutions from the recent Chief of Defence Staff’s Conference in Abuja. He noted that the Defence Industry Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) has already entered into a memorandum of understanding with DMG Events of the United Kingdom to co-host the maiden exhibition in Lagos.
Maj Gen Alaya revealed that the African International Defence Exhibition—scheduled for 26–28 October 2026 at Eko Atlantic City—will spotlight cutting-edge defence systems, cyber and space security innovations, next-generation military capabilities and Africa’s fast-evolving defence technologies. He said the event would feature high-end demonstrations and attract global industry players while amplifying Nigeria’s cultural identity and industrial ambitions.
He appealed for the COAS’s continued support to elevate the exhibition to a fully national project, noting that a formal request would be submitted shortly to streamline coordination between stakeholders.
The visit ended with an exchange of souvenirs and a group photograph, marking a shared commitment to delivering a world-class African International Defence Exhibition in 2026.
APPOLONIA ANELELieutenant ColonelActing Director, Army Public Relations28 November 2025
