Nigeria’s defence industry records major breakthrough with DICON-D7G debut at DIMDEX 2026

By Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna

Nigeria has recorded a significant milestone in its defence and industrial development with the global debut of the DICON-D7G, a fully indigenous defence platform, at the ongoing Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (DIMDEX 2026).

The exhibition, which runs until January 23, is one of the world’s leading maritime and naval defence gatherings, bringing together policymakers, senior military officials and defence technology firms from across the globe.

The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, who formally declared the DICON-D7G exhibition booth open on Monday, described the platform as a clear demonstration of Nigeria’s expanding indigenous defence manufacturing capacity and technological advancement.

Abbas noted that Nigeria’s participation at DIMDEX reflects the country’s commitment to maritime security cooperation and industrial progress on the global stage, adding that the exhibition represents Nigeria’s most ambitious international defence presentation to date.

For the first time since the establishment of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) in 1968, the Federal Government is showcasing a comprehensive platform designed for the production, assembly, maintenance, storage and export of military equipment.

Officials said the initiative signals Nigeria’s determination to shift from an import-dependent defence system to a self-sustaining and export-driven military-industrial framework.

Speaking with journalists, the Chief Executive Officer of DICON-D7G, Osman Chennar, said the platform emerged from years of strategic reforms, public-private partnerships and policy alignment aimed at revitalising Nigeria’s defence manufacturing sector.

“DICON-D7G delivers end-to-end defence solutions, ranging from weapons production and systems integration to maintenance, logistics, warehousing, and export readiness,” Chennar said.

He added that the platform deliberately integrates retired military generals and experienced professionals with civilian experts to mentor and train the next generation of defence personnel.

“We are not just building equipment; we are building human capacity for the future of Nigeria’s defence sector,” he said.

Also speaking, Retired Major General Mainasara Abdul Masanawa, Director of Land Systems at DICON, described DIMDEX 2026 as a strategic opportunity for Nigeria to display its growing capabilities while engaging global defence manufacturers, technology partners and investors.

According to him, DICON-D7G is pursuing technology transfer arrangements, joint ventures and export opportunities, particularly across Africa, the Middle East and other emerging defence markets.

Industry analysts said Nigeria’s participation at DIMDEX sends a strong signal of the Federal Government’s resolve to reposition DICON as a competitive force in the global defence industry while strengthening national security through local content development.

Similarly, Retired Brigadier General Abiodun Morakinyo noted that Nigeria’s presence at the exhibition aligns with broader national defence and industrialisation goals, including reducing foreign exchange exposure, improving the operational readiness of the Armed Forces, creating skilled employment and advancing technological innovation.

“DIMDEX is a global platform where nations assert their defence autonomy, and Nigeria’s debut sends a clear message that the country is now firmly part of that league,” he said.

Beyond technology exhibition, the Nigerian delegation is also engaging in high-level discussions on strategic partnerships, maritime security cooperation and defence export opportunities.

With the unveiling of the DICON-D7G platform, Nigeria is seeking to establish a foothold in international defence markets, particularly among African and Middle Eastern countries in search of reliable and cost-effective defence solutions.

Observers say the launch reflects a broader vision for Nigeria’s defence sector centred on local innovation, job creation and technological growth, while reducing reliance on foreign suppliers.

As DIMDEX 2026 continues, analysts expect Nigeria’s indigenous defence debut to attract considerable global interest and enhance the country’s strategic standing within the international defence and security environment.