The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to strengthening the nation’s defence capabilities, advancing technological innovation, and deepening strategic partnerships. He expressed full support for the upcoming African International Defence Exhibition, scheduled for 26–28 October 2026 in Lagos.
Shaibu described the exhibition as a “national imperative” and a forward-leaning step toward enhancing Nigeria’s defence diplomacy and industrial capacity. He made the remarks on Thursday, 28 November 2025, during a courtesy visit by the African International Defence Exhibition Committee to Army Headquarters in Abuja.
Represented by the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), Major General Bamidele Alabi, the COAS welcomed the initiative and assured the delegation of the Army’s full cooperation to ensure a successful event. He noted that the exhibition would provide a strategic platform to showcase Nigeria’s indigenous military technologies, operational proficiency, and defence innovations to the global security community.
“The forthcoming exhibition aligns with the Nigerian Army’s vision to strengthen local content development, enhance inter-agency collaboration, and promote doctrine-driven modern warfare capabilities,” Shaibu said. He urged the organisers to identify priority areas where Army support would be most impactful and assured them of sustained engagement and constructive collaboration.
Major General Babatunde Alaya, leader of the visiting delegation, explained that the Defence Industry Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) had signed a memorandum of understanding with DMG Events, United Kingdom, to co-host the maiden defence exhibition in Lagos. He said the event would spotlight cutting-edge defence and security solutions, indigenous innovation, strategic technologies, and cultural identity from Africa and beyond.
Alaya added that the exhibition will feature demonstrations of advanced weapon systems, cyber and space security capabilities, and next-generation operational technologies. He appealed for COAS support in elevating the initiative to a national project and confirmed that a formal request would soon be submitted to facilitate smooth coordination.
The visit concluded with the exchange of souvenirs and a group photograph, symbolising mutual resolve and strengthened partnership toward a successful 2026 African International Defence Exhibition.
