Nigeria is taking bold steps to advance its defence and aviation sectors, with ambitious plans for a new national defence exhibition and an upcoming air show. These efforts reflect the country’s determination to modernise its military, strengthen local industry ties, and elevate its standing in the global defence and aviation arenas. At the heart of these developments is a push from the Nigerian Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, who has been exploring the creation of a major defence trade show, alongside preparations by the Nigerian Air Force for its air show.
Matawalle has been engaging with local industry players over recent months to lay the groundwork for an all-new defence exhibition. This would mark a departure from previous events in Nigeria, as it would be the first dedicated national-sponsored defence exhibition and air show. The minister’s discussions with manufacturers and stakeholders aim to establish a platform that showcases Nigeria’s growing capabilities in defence production and fosters collaboration both domestically and abroad.
Unlike past gatherings, this initiative would carry the full backing of the government, signalling a strategic intent to position Nigeria as a key player in the defence sector. While Nigeria has a history of hosting defence-related events, none have matched the scope of what is now being proposed. The Africa Airforce Forum, for instance, organised by the Emirati company Great Minds Event Management, offers a glimpse of the country’s experience in this area. Its fourth edition took place in May 2025 at the Abuja International Conference Centre, coinciding with the Nigerian Air Force’s 61st anniversary.
Hosted by the Air Force, the forum drew prominent figures such as the Honourable Minister of Defence Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, Chief of Defence Staff General CG Musa, and Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Festus Keyamo. The event featured discussions on regional aviation and defence collaborations, wrapping up with an air show at the EKO Hotel in Lagos. International goodwill messages from the Chinese, Zimbabwean, and French Air Forces added a global dimension, while companies like Airbus, Embraer, and ASELSAN showcased their latest offerings.
Another established event is the Nigerian Security Exhibition and Conference, known as NISEC EXPO, scheduled for October 2025 in Abuja. Billed as Africa’s leading continental defence and security show, it brings together equipment manufacturers, vendors, end-users, experts, and policymakers annually in Nigeria’s capital. This gathering has become a vital space for collaboration and the display of cutting-edge security and defence technologies, cementing Abuja’s reputation as a hub for such activities. The Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) has also contributed to this landscape with its 60th anniversary celebrations, held on August 14-15, 2024, at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja.
Themed “DICON @60: Future Frontiers in Africa’s Defence Technology,” the two-day event drew over 3,000 participants from more than 30 countries. It focused on defence exhibitions, investment opportunities, industrial partnerships, and the future of African defence industries. A distinguished lineup of speakers and resource persons from across Africa and beyond addressed market trends, commercial strategies, and the integration of local content into defence production. The event served as a powerful demonstration of Nigeria’s aspirations to lead in defence technology and manufacturing. Meanwhile, the Nigerian Air Force is preparing for its milestone with the Nigeria International Airshow, set for December 2025. This event is a joint effort between the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development and the Air Force, with a committee established on June 30, 2025, to finalise plans.
During a courtesy visit, Permanent Secretary Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana praised the Air Force’s professionalism and urged collaboration to ensure the air show’s success. He outlined expectations, including a spectacular air display to showcase Nigeria’s air power and a ceremonial parade for the President and visiting delegations. Kana also invited the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Bala Abubakar, to a meeting with foreign ambassadors, facilitated by the foreign affairs ministry, and noted that foreign airline operators and other stakeholders have pledged their support. The Chief of Air Staff responded with enthusiasm, affirming the Air Force’s readiness to partner with the Ministry.
He described the air show as a national event that would bring honour to Nigeria and enhance economic viability. “We have credible hands to partner with the Ministry of Aviation, and we must do everything possible to ensure the success of the event,” Abubakar stated, promising to deploy all necessary resources. The air show will feature world-leading civil and defence aviation companies, offering exhibitions, live displays, and networking opportunities. It is expected to serve as a platform for business transactions, boosting Nigeria’s economy while promoting its culture and tourism.
These initiatives align with Nigeria’s broader efforts to modernise its military and reduce dependence on foreign arms. The push for a national defence exhibition reflects a desire to strengthen domestic manufacturing, while the air show will showcase the Air Force’s capabilities to both local and international audiences. Events like the DICON anniversary have already emphasised investment and technology transfer, drawing thousands of participants and fostering partnerships that could shape the future of Nigeria’s defence industry. The potential impact of these plans is substantial. By creating a national defence exhibition, Nigeria could attract global attention to its growing defence sector, encouraging collaborations that enhance local production. The air show, meanwhile, offers a chance to display air power and aviation advancements, potentially drawing investment and reinforcing national pride.
Together, these events could position Nigeria as a regional leader in defence and aviation, supporting economic growth and security in the years ahead. As preparations move forward, the success of these endeavours will hinge on effective coordination between government bodies, industry stakeholders, and international partners. The Nigerian Air Force’s commitment, combined with the Ministry of Aviation’s outreach to global players, sets a promising foundation. If realised, the national defence exhibition and air show could mark a turning point for Nigeria, amplifying its voice in Africa’s defence technology future and beyond.