Defence experts have called for a radical transformation of the Nigerian Armed Forces through the integration of modern technology, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and local capacity development to enhance national security. This call was made at the ongoing Nigeria Security and Defence Expo (NISECEXPO 2025), organised in collaboration with the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON). The three-day exhibition and conference, themed “Future Wars: Operational Endurance and Force Build-up Capabilities,” brought together stakeholders from across Africa and Europe to explore innovative solutions to contemporary security challenges.
Retired Maj.-Gen. Victor Ezugwu, former Director-General of DICON, described the expo as “a well-packaged showcase for future wars” and stressed the importance of preparing African defence industries for the 21st century. Ezugwu highlighted the need for Nigeria to harness its abundant natural resources and deploy modern technology in defence production.
“The enemy is thinking fast and occupying more ground. Non-state actors are playing an inimical role in national development and security,” Ezugwu said. He noted that the exhibition allowed participants to share expertise and actionable solutions from Israel, Ukraine, and beyond, enabling Nigeria and Africa to leverage these insights to strengthen defence production.
With the incorporation of AI and drones into Nigeria’s defence architecture, Ezugwu expressed optimism that within the next one or two years, the Armed Forces will be better equipped to tackle the myriad of security challenges across the country. He commended the administration for signing the DICON Act into law, noting that the move provides the necessary framework to support operational efficiency through local capacity development.
Prof. Roberto Mugavero, President of the European Centre for Disaster Medicine and an international expert, praised the platform for fostering collaboration. He said the expo provided a rare opportunity to link research, academia, and military-civilian operations. “Events like this create vital links between private research, public research, and responders, the military and civilian personnel alike. It allows knowledge-sharing that enhances preparedness and cooperation for complex scenarios, whether conflict or natural disaster,” Mugavero stated.
Mr. Frank Ohwofa, Co-Host of NISECEXPO 2025, described the expo as “a catalyst for the Nigerian Armed Forces’ transition from conventional approaches to a more technology-driven operational paradigm.” He emphasised that criminals and terrorists are leveraging new technologies, necessitating that the Nigerian military and security agencies adapt and even outpace their adversaries.
Ohwofa explained that the event is part of a broader strategy to ensure Nigeria’s defence industry becomes self-reliant, responsive, and capable of meeting evolving security threats while fostering regional collaboration. “Exhibitions like NISECEXPO bring together inventors, scientists, and academics to equip the military with innovative solutions. This is not a time for talk; it is a time to see tangible results on the ground,” he added.
The expo showcased cutting-edge defence technologies, including unmanned aerial vehicles, AI-driven security solutions, and disaster management systems. Participants from across Africa and Europe engaged in discussions and demonstrations aimed at addressing the pressing security challenges of the 21st century.
As Nigeria and its African partners continue to navigate an increasingly complex security landscape, the integration of advanced technologies and local capacity development remains critical. The insights and collaborations fostered at NISECEXPO 2025 are poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of defence and security in the region.