By SUMAILA OGBAJE

Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with a UK-based DMG Events, to host the 2026 Africa Defence and Security Exhibition (AFRIDEX) in Lagos.

The MoU was signed on the sidelines of the ongoing African Chiefs of Defence Staff Summit in Abuja on Tuesday.

The Director-General of DICON, Maj.-Gen. Babatunde Alaya, and the Vice-President of DMG Events, Mr Nick Ornstein, signed the MoU.

AFRIDEX, scheduled to hold from Oct. 25 to Oct. 28, 2026, will be Africa’s largest defence and security exhibition.

It will bring together global leaders, innovators and policy makers to discuss ways of strengthening peace and security on the continent.

In his remarks, Maj.-Gen. Alaya described the agreement as a milestone in Nigeria’s growing role in shaping Africa’s defence landscape.

“This MoU is a demonstration of trust, collaboration and shared vision to deliver a world-class exhibition here in Nigeria.

“The Lagos event will unite military officials, government representatives and technology pioneers from around the world,” he said.

Alaya added that the exhibition would provide a platform for showcasing cutting-edge solutions, fostering strategic partnerships and setting the agenda for the future of Africa’s defence industry.

On his part, Mr Ornstein of DMG Events said his organisation was committed to ensuring that AFRIDEX 2026 sets new standards in global defence and security exhibitions.

“Our collaboration with DICON reflects our belief in Nigeria’s central role in Africa’s defence sector.

“Lagos 2026 will not just be an exhibition but a catalyst for innovation, collaboration and investment in the continent’s security architecture,” he said. (NAN)