AFRIDEX 2026: Sokoto Reaffirms Commitment To Security Collaboration, Defence Innovations

The Governor of Sokoto State, Col. Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto, has reiterated the state's dedication to bolstering security alliances, advancing defense innovations, and tackling emerging security concerns across Nigeria and the African continent. This commitment was reaffirmed at the opening of the Africa International Defence Exhibition (AFRIDEX 2026), hosted by the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) at Eko Atlantic, Lagos.

President Bola Tinubu, represented by the President of the Senate, inaugurated the exhibition, attended by high-ranking military officials, ministers of defence, and representatives from various African nations, including the ECOWAS Commission.

Speaking at the event, Col. Ahmed Abdul Usman, the Governor's Special Adviser on Security Matters, highlighted the significance of AFRIDEX 2026 as a crucial platform for enhancing Africa's collective security through technological advancements, defense industrialization, and strategic collaboration. He emphasized the pressing need for security threats such as terrorism, banditry, and transnational organized crime, which have become increasingly complex, to be addressed through greater collaboration among governments, security institutions, defense manufacturers, and technology providers.

Col. Usman stressed that Africa must rely more on local research, manufacturing capabilities, and technological advancements to devise sustainable security solutions instead of solely depending on external sources for critical defense equipment. He also underscored that effective security management involves more than just deploying personnel and military hardware; it requires robust intelligence gathering, surveillance, advanced communication systems, capacity building, and strong inter-agency cooperation.

The Special Adviser emphasized Sokoto State's recognition of the importance of strategic partnerships and modern security solutions in addressing security challenges within the state and the broader North-West region. He affirmed the state government's commitment to supporting security agencies, enhancing community-based security initiatives, and providing operational resources to assist federal efforts in restoring peace and safeguarding lives and property.

Col. Usman expressed optimism that AFRIDEX 2026 would facilitate meaningful partnerships between Nigeria's defense industry and international technology providers, particularly in intelligence, equipment manufacturing, border surveillance, and unmanned systems, thereby fostering collaboration among African nations and global stakeholders.