Nigeria Showcases Indigenous Defence Platform At Doha Exhibition

Nigeria has recorded a milestone in its defence and industrial development with the global debut of an indigenous defence platform, DICON-D7G, at the ongoing Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (DIMDEX 2026).

The exhibition, which runs till January 23, 2026, is rated among the world’s leading maritime and naval defence gatherings, bringing together policymakers, senior military officials, and defence technology companies from across the globe.

The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, who declared the DICON-D7G exhibition booth open on Monday, described the platform as a major demonstration of Nigeria’s growing indigenous defence manufacturing capacity and technological innovation.

Abbas said Nigeria’s participation at the conference reflects the country’s commitment to maritime security cooperation and industrial advancement on the global stage, adding that the exhibition represents the country’s most ambitious international defence presentation to date.

For the first time since the establishment of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) in 1968, the federal government is showcasing a comprehensive platform designed for the production, assembly, maintenance, storage and export of military equipment.

The initiative, officials said, underscores Nigeria’s determination to transition from an import-dependent defence system to a self-reliant, export-oriented military-industrial complex.

Fielding questions from journalists, the chief executive officer of DICON-D7G, Mr Osman Chennar, said the platform was the result of years of strategic reforms, public-private partnerships, and policy alignment aimed at revitalising Nigeria’s defence manufacturing ecosystem.

“DICON-D7G delivers end-to-end defence solutions, ranging from weapons production and systems integration to maintenance, logistics, warehousing, and export readiness,” Chennar said.

He added that the platform actively integrates former military Generals and other seasoned professionals with civilian experts to mentor and train the next generation of defence personnel.

Also, Major General Mainasara Abdul Masanawa (rtd), director of Land Systems at DICON, described DIMDEX 2026 as a strategic opportunity for Nigeria to showcase its expanding capabilities while engaging global defence manufacturers, technology partners, and investors.

According to him, DICON-D7G is exploring technology transfer arrangements, joint ventures, and export opportunities, particularly across Africa, the Middle East and other emerging defence markets.

Similarly, Brigadier General Abiodun Morakinyo (rtd) said Nigeria’s presence at the exhibition aligned with broader national defence and industrialisation objectives, including reducing foreign exchange exposure, enhancing the operational readiness of the Armed Forces, creating skilled jobs, and promoting technological innovation.

“DIMDEX is a global platform where nations assert their defence autonomy, and Nigeria’s debut sends a clear message that the country is now firmly part of that league,” he said.