Nigeria is set to welcome one of the world’s largest defence and security gatherings as it hosts the inaugural Africa International Defence Exhibition and Conference (AFRIDEX) next year. Organisers announced the development during a press briefing in Abuja.

Scheduled for October 26–29, 2025, at Eko Atlantic City, Lagos, the event is poised to reinforce Nigeria’s growing status as a regional hub for defence innovation, security cooperation, and industrial advancement.

President of dmg events, Christopher Hudson, said Nigeria has shown “a clear vision to position itself at the centre of the continent’s defence and security dialogue,” citing strong federal support and high-level endorsement from the Armed Forces.

AFRIDEX is expected to attract more than 30,000 attendees from over 100 countries, featuring:

• 500 exhibiting companies
• 200 expert speakers
• Official country delegations
• National pavilions from leading defence-producing nations

The exhibition will host live demonstrations of cutting-edge military systems, strategic briefings, and high-level engagements for governments, military chiefs, defence manufacturers, and industry leaders.

Hudson noted that Africa’s defence sector continues to expand rapidly, with the continent spending $52.1 billion on defence in 2024, a figure projected to grow further. AFRIDEX, he said, will provide governments access to solutions tailored to African security challenges while giving defence manufacturers a gateway to major procurement markets.

Describing the event as a major milestone, Hudson emphasised that Nigeria is intensifying efforts to strengthen its defence industrial base, boost research and innovation, and localise arms and equipment production.

The exhibition is being organised in partnership with the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), led by its Director General, Major General B. I. Alaya, and supported by a steering committee chaired by Major General John Lar.

Hudson added that the collaboration between the Ministry of Defence, DICON, and dmg events underscores a shared commitment to building capacity, attracting investment, and promoting Africa’s defence self-reliance.

“We will deliver an exhibition that meets global standards, attracts top-tier international participation, and acts as a catalyst for collaboration, industrial growth, and strategic dialogue,” he said.