The exhibition will unite 500 global defence companies to showcase advanced technologies, build strategic partnerships and explore opportunities across the full defence and security value chain - all driving a safer, more resilient Africa.
With a global audience of defence leaders and over 30,000 attendees, sponsoring the event will deliver premium visibility, strengthen your brand presence and enable direct engagement with decision-makers shaping the future of Africa’s defence and security landscape.
The conference programme will provide a global platform where defence leaders, policymakers, innovators and industry experts will unite to address Africa’s most urgent security challenges. By fostering collaboration and driving strategic solutions, the summit will showcase advanced technologies, shape policy and build partnerships to strengthen Africa’s defence and security future.
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At a pivotal moment for Africa’s defence and security landscape, this event will bring together global leaders and innovators, offering visitors the chance to experience the latest technologies, connect with key decision-makers and be part of shaping the continent’s security future.
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Taking place from 26–29 October 2026 in Lagos, Nigeria, The Africa International Defence Exhibition will be the continent's premier platform for defence and security - uniting military leaders, governments and industry innovators to strengthen the continent’s security and shape its future.
Set to become Africa’s largest defence and security event, The Africa International Defence Exhibition will connect nations and industry to drive collaboration, innovation and progress.
Focused on the continent’s priorities, the event will promote collaboration, policy development and innovation to build a safer, more secure Africa.
The exhibition will feature over 500 global companies showcasing the latest innovations across land, sea, air, cyber and space. Attendees will explore live demonstrations and engage with leading manufacturers, suppliers and innovators shaping the future of Africa’s defence and security landscape.
The Leadership Roundtables will bring together Ministers, Defence Chiefs and senior policymakers from across Africa and around the world to address shared challenges, explore practical solutions and shape the future of defence cooperation across the continent.
The Defence Summit will unite global leaders, military commanders, ministers and policymakers to drive strategic dialogue and strengthen cooperation for Africa’s security future.
Industry experts will lead CPD-accredited workshops focused on sharing policies, best practices and technical insights to enhance defence and security capability across Africa.
The Technical Seminar will gather leading engineers, innovators and experts to share knowledge and advance the development of a stronger, more resilient defence and security sector.
Visitors will witness live demonstrations across land, sea and air, featuring cutting-edge technologies designed to enhance national and international security.
The Hosted Buyer Programme will welcome international delegations seeking to source the latest defence and security technologies showcased across the conference and exhibition.
The exhibition will feature national pavilions highlighting advanced technologies and solutions, connecting participating nations to the global defence and security supply chain.
Discover why The Africa International Defence Exhibition is the essential meeting place for defence and security professionals across Africa and beyond:
Network with regional and global defence leaders
Discover innovative defence and security technologies
Gain insight into African defence markets and trends
Access exclusive briefings and strategic discussions
Explore investment and procurement opportunities
Strengthen cross-border collaboration and partnerships
Experience live demonstrations across all defence domains
Enhance professional knowledge and leadership skills
Expand your organisation’s presence across Africa
Exhibiting within an International Pavilion at The Africa International Defence Exhibition will showcase your brand alongside national champions, defence manufacturers and global technology leaders. These dedicated pavilions are designed to highlight cutting-edge defence solutions, facilitate bilateral trade and connect you directly with procurement officials and strategic partners shaping Africa’s defence and security landscape.
Whether representing a government delegation or expanding into new defence markets, International Pavilions will maximise visibility, streamline engagement and deliver strong return on investment.
Nigeria remains steadfast in her commitment to advancing Africa’s collective security architecture. This Pan-African Defence and Security Exhibition in Lagos in October 2026 will serve as a vital platform for fostering conference & collaboration, showcasing innovation, and strengthening the bonds between our armed forces and strategic partners across the continent. Together, we can harness our shared strengths to safeguard peace, protect our people, and build a secure future for Africa.
Chief of Defence Staff
Armed Forces of Nigeria
The Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) is proud to support this landmark Defence and Security event in Lagos - a vital platform for fostering collaboration, promoting innovation, and advancing capacity building across Africa. As the Continent faces evolving security challenges, this gathering offers an opportunity to strengthen strategic partnerships, showcase indigenous capabilities, and drive forward the shared goal of a safer and more secure Africa. By leveraging our collective expertise and resources, we can build the resilient defence infrastructure needed to safeguard our nations, promote stability, and secure a future of lasting peace and shared prosperity for the African continent.
Director General
Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON)