DIMDEX 2026: Navy seeks tech transfer to boost local ship production

In a strategic move to modernize the Nigerian Navy and solidify its position as a regional maritime power, the Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, has called for increased technology transfer to enhance the Navy’s local warship construction capabilities.

The CNS made the call while attending the ninth edition of the Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (DIMDEX 2026), held from January 19–22 in Qatar.

The event was hosted by the Qatar Armed Forces under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar.

In a statement by the Director of Naval Information, Commodore Aiwuyor Adam
a primary focus of Vice Admiral Abbas’s visit was to engage with global maritime industry leaders to facilitate the transfer of cutting-edge technology.

He said the prospects of technology transfer would further reposition the NN to become a leading manufacturer of warships on the African continent.

Recall that the NN so far has built five sea going platforms locally namely; MV SAUKA LAFIA commissioned in 2010, NNS ANDONI commissioned in 2012, NNS KARADUWA commissioned in 2016, MV TUG COMMANDER UGWU commissioned in 2016 and NNS OJI commissioned in 2021.

Described as the largest exhibition of maritime defence and security innovations in the Middle East Region, the statement said the Nigerian Navy’s participation at DIMDEX has opened a new vista for improving NN platform composition in line with emerging cutting-edge technology.

“During the four-day event, several visiting warships from partner nations were berthed at Hamad Port and open to dignitaries and visitors.

“The CNS interacted with many solution providers in the maritime industry on latest trends and innovations related to acquisition of platforms and transfer of technology to improve the NN’s indigenous ship production capacity.

“Additionally, DIMDEX 2026 afforded the NN the opportunity to preview various options of precision guided munitions suitable for Maritime Security Operations in Nigerian waters and Naval Gunfire Support.

“This is in line with the CNS vision for the NN which is to “develop a modern, agile and professional naval force dedicated to securing Nigeria’s maritime interests and advancing national security objectives in synergy with other security agencies.” the statement said.