Nigeria Advocates for African Defence Self-Reliance at AFRIDEX 2026

At the conclusion of the African Defence Exhibition and Conference (AFRIDEX 2026) in Lagos, Nigeria's Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd), called for African countries to strengthen indigenous defence production and enhance regional security cooperation. Musa emphasized the necessity for Africa to reduce its dependence on foreign military equipment and external powers.

He reaffirmed Nigeria's commitment to continental solidarity and the development of indigenous defence capabilities. The minister urged for a unified African stance on security matters and stronger representation in global security decision-making.

He addressed security challenges across various regions, advocating for coordinated responses to terrorism and organized crime. Musa also highlighted the importance of local production of military equipment and proposed making the African Standby Force fully operational.

He suggested a structured follow-up mechanism among defence institutions for joint training and intelligence sharing, asserting Nigeria's readiness to collaborate with other African nations for a secure and self-reliant continent.