The Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Matawalle, has said that combating the myriad security challenges confronting the country requires the acquisition of new technologies; hence, Nigeria is ready to explore the latest technology in military hardware that would eventually be acquired for the country.
Speaking at the World Defence Exhibition taking place in Saudi Arabia, the minister said; The country is also ready to create ways of collaborating with key defence stakeholders, leaders, and companies to enhance Nigeria’s security structure,” he explained.
The Nigerian delegation to the World Defence Exhibition comprises the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Dr Ibrahim Abubakar Kana.
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, Director-General of Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), Major-General Effiong Edet, and other critical stakeholders of the Nigerian Armed Forces and exhibitors from the shores of Nigeria.
A statement by the Ministry of Defence said; “While going round the exhibition stands, the Minister pointed out that the aim of the global exhibition was for participating countries’ Ministries of Defence to meet and share information and ideas on the latest defence systems.
He said major international defence companies like DICON and PROFORCE from Nigeria and others around the world are participating in the exhibition in addition to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Ministry of Defence.”
Speaking further, the Minister said; “The Exhibition is designed to deliver key platforms across all five defence domains: land, sea, air, space (satellites), and security.”
The exhibition featured displays of military hardware and the latest technology in military aircraft, including a live air show, knowledge transfer, topical debates, and opportunities to connect, collaborate, and network with key defence stakeholders and leaders.
Commending the organiser of the global event, the Minister said that countries would gain a lot in terms of defence cooperation.
“This is in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s agenda on security and further enhancement of security in Nigeria and West African region.”
The 2nd World Defence Exhibition in Saudi Arabia, which started on February 4, 2024, is expected to end on February 8, 2024.
