Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has received members of the Steering Committee of the Africa International Defence Exhibition (AFRIDEX 2026) during a courtesy visit at Lagos House, Marina.
Eko Hot News reports that the delegation was led by the Director-General of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), Major General Babatunde Ibrahim Alaya, who serves as the team leader for the AFRIDEX 2026 Steering Committee.
The visit underscored ongoing efforts to strengthen collaboration between Lagos State and key national institutions ahead of the continental defence and security exhibition scheduled for 2026.
AFRIDEX 2026 is expected to serve as a strategic platform for showcasing innovations in defence technology, security solutions, and military-industrial development across Africa and beyond.
Governor Sanwo-Olu welcomed the delegation and reaffirmed Lagos State’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote national development, security, innovation, and economic growth.
The governor noted that Lagos remains a leading destination for major international conferences, exhibitions, and investment-focused events due to its infrastructure, connectivity, and business-friendly environment.
Discussions during the meeting focused on opportunities for collaboration, stakeholder engagement, and preparations for the successful hosting and execution of AFRIDEX 2026.
The visit also highlighted the importance of partnerships between government institutions and security agencies in advancing national objectives and fostering sustainable development.
Major General Alaya expressed appreciation to the Lagos State Government for its support and commitment to initiatives that contribute to Nigeria’s defence and industrial advancement.
He emphasized the significance of AFRIDEX 2026 as a platform that will bring together policymakers, defence experts, industry leaders, investors, and international partners.
According to him, the exhibition is designed to promote innovation, encourage knowledge exchange, and strengthen Africa’s capacity in defence production and security management.
The delegation also included the Nigerian Customs Area Controller in charge of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Controller Chidi Nwokorie, alongside other key officials.
Stakeholders at the meeting discussed the potential economic and strategic benefits of the exhibition, including investment opportunities, technology transfer, and increased regional cooperation.
Observers believe AFRIDEX 2026 will further position Nigeria as a major player in Africa’s defence and security ecosystem while creating opportunities for local industries and businesses.
The exhibition is expected to attract participants from across Africa and other parts of the world, providing a platform for networking, partnerships, and industry development.
Lagos State’s involvement in the initiative reflects its broader commitment to supporting national programmes that drive innovation, economic expansion, and international engagement.
The courtesy visit concluded with renewed assurances of cooperation between the Lagos State Government and the AFRIDEX 2026 Steering Committee as preparations for the event continue.
With AFRIDEX 2026 on the horizon, stakeholders remain optimistic that the exhibition will strengthen Nigeria’s profile in the global defence industry and contribute to long-term economic and technological growth.
