Nigeria has called on African countries to strengthen indigenous defence industries and reduce their dependence on foreign military equipment as part of efforts to improve continental security. The Minister of Defence, retired General Christopher Musa, made the appeal during a strategic engagement with African ministers of defence and chiefs of defence staff at the Africa International Defence Exhibition and Conference (AFRIDEX 2026) in Lagos, the event brought together defence and security stakeholders to discuss military cooperation, technological innovation and strategies for addressing Africa’s security challenges. Musa argued that Africa must move beyond depending heavily on external suppliers and develop the industrial capacity required to support its own defence needs. He described the continent’s dependence on foreign military equipment, spare parts and technical support as a strategic vulnerability. According to him, African countries should invest in local manufacturing, technology transfer, research, equipment maintenance and the development of skilled technical personnel, the minister also called for stronger cooperation among African defence industries through joint ventures, collaborative research and regional production arrangements. He identified Nigeria’s Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria as a potential platform for developing partnerships with other African defence institutions. Beyond military manufacturing, Musa highlighted the growing importance of artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, unmanned systems and counter-drone technology in contemporary warfare, the urged African governments to invest in these emerging areas to improve their ability to respond to modern security threats. The minister also called for greater cooperation among African countries in combating terrorism, violent extremism, arms trafficking and organised crime, he identified regions such as the Sahel and Lake Chad Basin as areas requiring stronger intelligence-sharing arrangements and coordinated security operations. Musa further emphasised that military operations alone would not deliver lasting peace without effective governance, economic opportunities and public confidence in state institutions. The AFRIDEX 2026 engagement reflects growing interest in developing Africa’s defence capabilities and strengthening cooperation among countries facing similar security challenges, for Nigeria and other African countries, reducing dependence on foreign defence suppliers could create opportunities for industrial development, technological innovation and skilled employment. However, achieving these ambitions will require sustained investment, strong institutions and cooperation across national boundaries.
Similar Posts
FG, FOCI Train 200 Nigerian Youths in Construction Skills
The Federal Government, in partnership with the Federation of Construction Industry, has trained 200 Nigerian youths in construction-related skills. The training was carried out under a youth skills acquisition programme designed to improve employability and provide young Nigerians with practical vocational skills. The beneficiaries were trained in three major areas: masonry, plumbing and carpentry. The…
NIGERIA TARGETS $1 BILLION IN ANNUAL FOREX SAVINGS THROUGH LOCAL SUGAR PRODUCTION
Nigeria could save approximately $1 billion in foreign exchange annually and create 110,000 direct jobs if the country achieves self-sufficiency in sugar production, according to projections attributed to the National Sugar Development Council. The council’s Executive Secretary and Chief Executive, Kamar Bakrin, outlined the potential benefits as the government seeks to reduce dependence on imported…
Relief for Families as 20 Rescued Prospective NYSC Members Return to Ibadan
Twenty prospective members of the National Youth Service Corps who were abducted while travelling to their orientation camps have reportedly returned to Ibadan, bringing relief to families who had spent days worrying about their safety. The graduates were among a group of prospective corps members travelling from Oyo State to their assigned orientation camps in…
PETER OBI LINKS NIGERIA’S INSECURITY TO POVERTY, PROMISES STRONGER ACTION IF ELECTED
Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has linked Nigeria’s persistent insecurity to widespread poverty, arguing that efforts to reduce crime must address the economic conditions that leave many communities vulnerable. Obi reportedly made the remarks during a town hall meeting with stakeholders and supporters in Lokoja, Kogi State, on October 27. He also expressed his intention…
Lagos APC Takes Tinubu–Hamzat 2027 Mobilisation Campaign to Nigerians in US
The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has taken its mobilisation campaign for the 2027 elections to Nigerians living in the United States. The party reportedly carried out the mobilisation activities in Chicago as it seeks support for President Bola Tinubu and Lagos Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat ahead of the 2027 elections….
JIDE KOSOKO SPARKS DEBATE AFTER SAYING ONE GOOD MEAL A DAY CAN BE ENOUGH
The veteran Nollywood actor has faced renewed public attention after comments about food, personal responsibility and the Tinubu administration’s handling of Nigeria’s economic challenges. Veteran Nigerian actor Jide Kosoko has sparked public discussion following remarks about the cost of living and the ability of Nigerians to manage their daily expenses. Kosoko reportedly made the comments…
