Embracing Technology: A New Era for the Nigerian Armed Forces at NISECEXPO 2025
As the landscape of global security transforms, the Nigerian Armed Forces are at the precipice of a technological revolution. The recent Nigeria Security and Defence Expo (NISECEXPO 2025), held in collaboration with the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), brought together defence experts and stakeholders from across Africa and Europe. This three-day conference, themed “Future Wars: Operational Endurance and Force Build-up Capabilities,” emphasized the urgent need for modernizing Nigeria’s military capabilities.
The Call for Transformation
During this landmark event, defence experts underscored the necessity for radical transformation within the Nigerian Armed Forces. They highlighted the integration of advanced technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), as pivotal for enhancing national security. Retired Maj.-Gen. Victor Ezugwu, a former Director-General of DICON, articulated that the future of warfare demands not just innovation, but also a strategic approach to harness Nigeria’s abundant natural resources for defence production.
Unveiling Opportunities
The expo was more than just a gathering; it served as a platform for sharing expertise across borders. Several countries, including Israel and Ukraine, showcased their innovative solutions to contemporary security challenges. As Ezugwu stressed, “the enemy is thinking fast and occupying more ground.” With non-state actors contributing to insecurity, this sharing of knowledge becomes crucial for Nigeria and Africa as they seek to strengthen their defence industries.
The Role of International Experts
International perspectives added depth to the discussions at NISECEXPO 2025. Prof. Roberto Mugavero, President of the European Centre for Disaster Medicine, applauded the expo for bridging the gap between research and operational needs. By linking academia with military and civilian operations, the event fostered an environment for knowledge exchange that enhances preparedness for complex scenarios—be they in conflict or natural disaster contexts.
A Catalyst for Change
Mr. Frank Ohwofa, a co-host of the event, characterized NISECEXPO as a catalyst for transitioning the Nigerian Armed Forces from conventional methods to a technology-driven operational paradigm. He underscored how modern criminals leverage technology, emphasizing the military’s need to adapt and innovate to keep pace with evolving threats.
Showcasing Cutting-Edge Technologies
Among the exciting displays at the expo were cutting-edge defence technologies, including unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and AI-driven security solutions. These advancements are essential as Nigeria seeks to become self-reliant in its defence capabilities. The exhibition not only highlighted technological innovation but also fostered an atmosphere for collaboration among inventors, scientists, and military personnel.
Legislative Support for Innovation
The administration’s recent signing of the DICON Act into law has provided significant backing for local capacity development. Ezugwu lauded this move, noting it offers the necessary framework for operational efficiency within the defence sector. By ensuring that local producers can support military needs, Nigeria is taking critical steps toward sustainability and self-reliance in its defence industry.
The Imperative for Collaborative Approaches
The expo fundamentally addressed the need for collaborative approaches among various stakeholders. Ohwofa’s remarks highlighted that this is a time for action, not just dialogue. Events like NISECEXPO 2025 are essential for aligning the military’s needs with innovation, ensuring that tangible solutions emerge in the face of complex security challenges.
Through a blend of local ingenuity and international expertise, NISECEXPO 2025 has positioned the Nigerian Armed Forces on the brink of a technological renaissance, promising a more secure future for the nation.