Nigeria is set to host the inaugural Africa International Defence Exhibition (AFRIDEX 2026), bringing together military leaders, government officials, defence manufacturers and security experts from across Africa and other parts of the world to explore partnerships and technological innovations aimed at strengthening the continent’s security architecture.
The four-day exhibition is scheduled to hold from October 26 to 29, 2026, at Eko Atlantic City, Lagos, with the support of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. It is being organised through a partnership involving the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) and international events company dmg events.
The exhibition is designed to provide a platform for governments, armed forces, policymakers and private-sector organisations to exchange ideas, showcase technological advancements and develop partnerships to address emerging security challenges across the continent.
According to information published by the organisers, AFRIDEX will focus on five major defence and security domains: land, maritime, air, space and cyber operations.
The event will feature a flagship defence exhibition, a strategic defence and security summit, international pavilions, a hosted delegation programme and live capability demonstrations. These activities are expected to facilitate discussions on military modernisation, defence procurement, indigenous manufacturing and regional security cooperation.
The exhibition will also provide opportunities for defence manufacturers, technology companies and emerging innovators to present their products and solutions to military authorities, procurement officials and other industry stakeholders.
The organisers said the platform is intended to strengthen cooperation between African countries and international partners while supporting the development of sustainable defence industries across the continent.
Nigeria’s participation reflects its ambition to strengthen indigenous defence production, attract investment into the sector and deepen collaboration with international defence and security organisations.
The Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria, which is hosting the event alongside dmg events, is expected to play a central role in promoting local manufacturing capabilities and encouraging partnerships that can support the country’s long-term defence requirements.
AFRIDEX will also feature national and international pavilions showcasing the capabilities of participating countries, alongside demonstrations designed to highlight operational readiness, equipment performance and interoperability.
The programme comes amid growing interest among African countries in modernising their armed forces, strengthening border security, protecting maritime interests and addressing threats associated with terrorism, cyberattacks and other forms of insecurity.
Beyond military equipment and technology, the exhibition is expected to provide a forum for strategic discussions involving government representatives, military commanders, policymakers and industry leaders on shared security priorities.
Through these engagements, AFRIDEX aims to encourage stronger partnerships, promote technological innovation and support the development of defence capabilities that can respond to Africa’s evolving security needs.
The event is expected to attract participation from African countries and international partners seeking opportunities for cooperation, investment and technological exchange in the defence and security sectors.
