Nigeria Eyes Cutting-Edge Naval Platforms at DIMDEX 2026

By Zainab Uzomah

The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, has attended the 2026 Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (DIMDEX), as Nigeria seeks to strengthen its naval capabilities and deepen partnerships on maritime security.

According to a statement signed by Commodore A. Adams-Aliu, Director of Information, the four-day event, held from 19–22 January in Qatar, brought together global defence leaders and showcased cutting-edge innovations in maritime security. The exhibition, hosted by the Qatar Armed Forces, was held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar.

DIMDEX, the largest maritime defence and security exposition in the Middle East, provided the Nigerian Navy with an opportunity to explore new technologies and expand its platform acquisition options. During the event, Vice Admiral Abbas engaged with leading maritime solution providers on platform acquisition, technology transfer and new trends that could enhance indigenous shipbuilding.

The statement noted that the Nigerian Navy has already built five sea-going platforms locally—MV Sauka Lafia (2010), NNS Andoni (2012), NNS Karaduwa (2016), MV Tug Commander Ugwu (2016), and NNS Oji (2021). Officials say expanded technology transfer could position Nigeria as a leading ship manufacturer on the African continent.

The Navy Chief also assessed various precision-guided munitions suitable for maritime security operations and naval gunfire support, aligning with his vision to develop “a modern, agile and professional naval force dedicated to securing Nigeria’s maritime interests and advancing national security objectives.”