Senate President Godswill Akpabio has urged African states to focus on domestic production of defence equipment, cautioning that over-dependence on foreign suppliers of military equipment should be avoided while the region continues to face security challenges.
Akpabio made the statement on Monday in Lagos where he represented President Bola Tinubu at the inauguration of the 2026 Africa International Defence Exhibition (AFRIDEX).
By building indigenous defence industry, African countries will be able to expand their technological ability, strengthen military preparedness and minimise dependence on foreign equipment, he said.
The Senate President also called for stronger cooperation among African countries to combat terrorism, insurgency, banditry and other transnational crimes which continue to threaten peace and stability.
He emphasised the necessity for collective measures to safeguard the Gulf of Guinea, highlighting the importance of maritime security to regional trade and economic prosperity.
Akpabio also urged for more investment in new military technologies such as artificial intelligence and cyber security to empower security services to respond to ever more sophisticated threats.
He pointed to Africa’s youthful population as a potential source of innovation, calling on countries to invest in skills development and technological competence that may enable the creation of local defence businesses.
He highlighted the need to provide the Armed Forces with the required tools and resources to confront threats and safeguard the country, in line with Nigeria’s security requirements.
AFRIDEX 2026 provides a platform for defence and security industry stakeholders to meet, network and explore potential for partnerships, technology transfer and investment in Africa’s defence industry.
The show comes in the wake of continued efforts to modernise the continent’s security architecture and boost local capacity to produce military weapons and related technology.
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