NIMASA to Showcase Deep Blue Project at AFRIDEX 2026

By Stella Okocha

The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) will showcase the operational capabilities of Nigeria’s Integrated National Security and Waterways Protection Infrastructure, popularly known as the Deep Blue Project, at the Africa International Defence Exhibition (AFRIDEX) 2026.

The exhibition, scheduled to hold from October 26 to 29, 2026, will feature live land and maritime demonstrations to highlight Nigeria’s investment in advanced maritime security infrastructure, specialised personnel, intelligence gathering, surveillance and coordinated response to threats across the nation’s maritime domain.

The initiative is designed to protect Nigeria’s territorial waters, critical maritime assets, coastal infrastructure and strategic shipping routes within the Gulf of Guinea.

Speaking ahead of the event, the Director General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, said the Agency’s participation in AFRIDEX is to showcase Nigeria’s progress in maritime security through technology, intelligence sharing and inter-agency collaboration before the international community.

He noted that the Deep Blue Project remains a critical component of the nation’s maritime security architecture, supporting efforts to combat piracy, armed robbery at sea and other maritime crimes while safeguarding maritime trade and economic activities.

According to him, the live demonstrations will provide stakeholders and international participants with an opportunity to appreciate the operational readiness, tactical proficiency and coordinated response capabilities developed under the project.

“Effective maritime security requires not only modern equipment but also well-trained personnel, efficient command structures and sustained collaboration among security agencies,” Mobereola said.

AFRIDEX 2026 is expected to bring together governments, armed forces, maritime authorities, security organisations and international defence technology partners to showcase innovations, exchange operational knowledge and strengthen cooperation across land, maritime, air, cyber and space domains.

NIMASA said its participation will demonstrate Nigeria’s capacity to conduct integrated security operations while promoting regional cooperation and the protection of critical national infrastructure.

The Agency added that its participation underscores its continued commitment to supporting the Federal Government’s efforts to enhance maritime safety and security, sustain gains in the Gulf of Guinea and create a secure environment for shipping, offshore operations and the growth of Nigeria’s Blue Economy.