Abuja: Defence experts have called for radical transformation of the Nigerian Armed Forces through integration of modern technology, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and local capacity development to enhance national security. They made the call at the ongoing Nigeria Security and Defence Expo (NISECEXPO 2025), organised in collaboration with the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON).
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the three-day exhibition and conference with the theme ‘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. Former Director-General of DICON, Retired Maj.-Gen. Victor Ezugwu, 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. He emphasized that the ‘enemy is thinking fast and occupying more ground. Non-state actors are playing an inimical role to national development and security.’ The exhibition has allowed participants to share expertise and actionable solutions from Israel, Ukraine and beyond, aiming for Nigeria and Africa to leverage them to strengthen defence production. He expressed optimism that with the incorporation of AI and drones into Nigeria’s defence architecture, the Armed Forces would be better equipped within the next one or two years to tackle the myriad of security challenges across the country.
The retired general also commended the administration for signing the DICON Act into law, noting that ‘the move provides teeth and bites’ to the industry and ensures local capacity can support operational efficiency. An international expert, Prof. Roberto Mugavero, who is also the President of the European Centre for Disaster Medicine, praised the platform for fostering collaboration. Mugavero noted that the expo provided a rare opportunity to link research, academia, and military-civilian operations, creating vital links between private research, public research, and responders.
The Co-Host of NISECEXPO 2025, Mr. Frank Ohwofa, described the expo as ‘a catalyst for the Nigerian Armed Forces’ transition from conventional approaches to a more technology-driven operational paradigm.’ He highlighted the necessity for the Nigerian military and security agencies to adapt and even outpace criminals and terrorists who are using new technologies. Ohwofa emphasized that the event was 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. He added that ‘exhibitions like NISECEXPO bring together inventors, scientists and academics to equip the military with innovative solutions,’ stressing the importance of seeing tangible results on the ground.