Nigeria has recorded a major milestone in its defence and industrial history with the presentation of a comprehensive indigenous defence platform at the Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (DIMEX) 2026 in Qatar.
For the first time since 1968, the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN), through the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), is showcasing an integrated platform dedicated to the indigenous production, assembly, maintenance, stocking and export of defence equipment. The platform, branded DICON–D7G, is being unveiled on the global stage at DIMEX 2026, one of the world’s leading maritime defence exhibitions.
The exhibition marks Nigeria’s most ambitious international defence presentation to date, underscoring the country’s growing capacity to transition from a largely import-dependent defence system to a self-reliant and export-oriented military-industrial complex.
According to the Chief Executive Officer of the DICON-D7G, Mr Osman Chennar at the exhibition, the DICON–D7G platform reflects years of strategic reforms, public-private partnerships and policy alignment with the President Tinubu Renewed Hope Agenda aimed at revitalising Nigeria’s defence manufacturing ecosystem. The platform DICON-D7G brings together end-to-end defence solutions, covering weapons production, systems integration, maintenance and life-cycle support, logistics, warehousing and export readiness.
Accordingly, Mr. Chennar said the platform has engaged a number of retired military generals and other experienced personnel, alongside a large pool of civilians, who are actively involved in the company and contributing their expertise, including the training and mentoring of a new generation of professionals.
One of the company’s board directors, the Director Land System, retired General Mainasara Abdul Masanawa, speaking to the media, explained that DIMEX 2026 provides a strategic venue for Nigeria to engage with global defence manufacturers, technology partners, investors and maritime security stakeholders. “The DICON-D7G and the Nigerian delegation are expected to leverage the exhibition to explore technology transfer opportunities, joint ventures and export markets, particularly within Africa, the Middle East and other emerging defence markets” General Masanawa said.
Industry analysts describe Nigeria’s presence at DIMEX as a strong signal of intent by the Federal Government to reposition DICON as a competitive player in the global defence industry, while also strengthening national security through local content development.
While also adding, Retired Brigadier General Abiodun Morakinyo, alluded that the development aligns with Nigeria’s broader defence and industrialisation objectives, including reducing foreign exchange exposure, enhancing operational readiness of the Armed Forces, creating skilled jobs and promoting technological innovation.
Retired Brigadier General Morakinyo added “DIMEX 2026, hosted by the State of Qatar, attracts senior military officials, policymakers and defence companies from across the world, with a focus on maritime security, naval defence and emerging technologies”. Nigeria’s participation through DICON–D7G he said places the country among a growing group of nations seeking to assert strategic autonomy in defence production.
As the exhibition continues till January 23, Nigeria’s debut of a fully integrated indigenous defence platform is expected to generate significant interest and reinforce the country’s evolving role in the global defence and security landscape.
