The Minister of the Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s strong commitment to inter-agency collaboration, innovation, and national development during a high-level meeting with the organisers of the African International Defence Exhibition (AFRIDEX) 2026.
The Minister made this known when receiving Major General Umar Alkali and his delegation on a courtesy visit to his office in Abuja.
Describing AFRIDEX as “a very important event,” Dr Tunji-Ojo emphasised that meaningful progress within Nigeria’s defence and security architecture can only be achieved through collaboration, rather than working in silos. He stressed the need for institutions to embrace openness, synergy, and strategic partnerships to maximise national impact and drive sustainable development.
He commended the AFRIDEX initiative as a crucial platform for both emerging and established innovators, particularly Nigerian young people who continue to demonstrate exceptional ingenuity in the digital and cybersecurity sectors. According to the Minister, providing visibility for such talent is essential for strengthening national pride, advancing economic growth, and enhancing global competitiveness.
Highlighting the central role of research in national development, Tunji-Ojo called for stronger links between innovation and market opportunities. He noted that creating platforms where innovators, manufacturers, and investors can interact is key to translating research into tangible economic value.
Encouraging the organisers, the Minister suggested that AFRIDEX should be established as an annual event. While acknowledging that the inaugural edition may present challenges, he noted that it would also offer valuable lessons for improving future events. He further called for closer collaboration among security and intelligence agencies, stressing that “this is not a time for departmental thinking, but for collective progress.”
Reaffirming the Ministry’s support, he described AFRIDEX as an initiative that represents “the future, not just the present,” adding that sustained efforts would attract international participation and promote the growth of indigenous industries.
Regarding visa facilitation, the Minister acknowledged ongoing improvements but recommended the establishment of a dedicated help desk to ensure smooth entry processes for the expected influx of international participants.
Earlier, Major General Alkali expressed his appreciation to the Minister for the audience and commended his continued support for capacity building and inter-agency cooperation. He formally introduced AFRIDEX as a premier global defence and security exhibition scheduled to take place from 26th to 29th October 2026, at Eko Atlantic City.
Organised with the support of the Federal Government of Nigeria and hosted by the Ministry of Defence in collaboration with the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria, the event is expected to bring together global leaders, policymakers, industry experts, and innovators. The exhibition will showcase cutting-edge solutions across land, air, maritime, space, and cyber domains, with over 30,000 international participants and 500 exhibitors anticipated.
Major General Alkali also highlighted the critical role of the Ministry of the Interior in ensuring the success of the event, particularly in the areas of security coordination and visa facilitation. He formally invited the Honourable Minister to participate and requested the Ministry’s support in promoting AFRIDEX through its platforms, as well as encouraging participation from agencies under its supervision.
The visit concluded with a shared commitment to strategic partnership and a unified vision of positioning Nigeria as a global hub for defence innovation and security solutions.
