The Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, has called for exploring emerging maritime defence technologies aimed at strengthening the operational capabilities of the Nigerian Navy.
Vice Admiral Abbas made the call at the ninth edition of the Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (DIMDEX) 2026 in Qatar. The naval chief attended the event as part of efforts to enhance the Navy’s fleet, platforms, and overall combat readiness.
According to a statement signed by the Director of Information, Commodore A. Adams-Aliu, DIMDEX 2026 was hosted by the Qatar Armed Forces under the patronage of the Amir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. The event remains the largest maritime defence and security exhibition in the Middle East.
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The four-day event brought together global maritime stakeholders to showcase innovations in naval warfare, maritime security, and defence technology.
During the exhibition, the CNS engaged with leading maritime defence solution providers, focusing on modern naval platforms, precision-guided munitions, naval gunfire support systems, and technology-transfer opportunities to boost Nigeria’s indigenous shipbuilding capacity.
Vice Admiral Abbas noted that the Nigerian Navy has recorded significant progress in local shipbuilding, having constructed and commissioned five seagoing vessels between 2010 and 2021. He stressed that sustained technology partnerships would further position the Navy as a leading warship manufacturer in Africa.
DIMDEX 2026 also enabled the Nigerian Navy to assess equipment suitable for maritime security operations within Nigerian waters and across the Gulf of Guinea, as well as requirements for the newly established Nigerian Navy Marines.
The Navy said its participation in the exhibition has opened new opportunities for strategic partnerships, fleet modernisation, and improved maritime security in line with global best practices.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
