By Olasunkanmi Akoni

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has expressed stronger support toward the successful hosting of the maiden Africa International Defence Exhibition, AFRIDEX.

Sanwo-Olu, also expressed support for the Lagos State Scout Council following his formal investiture as the Patron of the association.

He described AFRIDEX initiative as a strategic platform for collaboration, innovation and knowledge sharing across the continent.

Sanwo-Olu gave the assurance on Friday while receiving a delegation from the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria, DICON, led by its Director-General, Maj.-Gen. Babatunde Alaya, at Lagos House, Marina.

Sanwo-Olu described DICON as a historic institution with a longstanding reputation within Nigeria’s military establishment.

“DICON is a well-known name. It has a long history of excellence and being part of the military establishment of our country.

“I feel truly proud and wish you well as you continue to lead this important federal government asset,” he said.

Speaking on AFRIDEX, the governor congratulated the organisers for securing Nigeria and Lagos as hosts of what he described as a major continental defence exhibition.

According to him, the event reflects the growing importance of collaboration in global defence and security operations.

“What is happening globally now is an era of collaboration. One person cannot do it all.

“It is only at large conferences like this that skills, knowledge transfer, peer review and meaningful conversations can happen.

“We are sharing knowledge, opening up research, critiquing innovations and learning from one another for global benefit,” he said.

Sanwo-Olu also commended African nations for organising a defence exhibition on the continent instead of depending solely on Europe and Asia for such engagements.

“For Africa to now come together and organise an exhibition of this nature is commendable.

“For choosing Nigeria and by extension Lagos, we feel truly honoured,” he said.

The governor, also approved the state’s endorsement of the conference and disclosed plans to host visiting dignitaries and foreign delegates during the exhibition.

At the investiture ceremony, held at State House, Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the association and strengthening its role in youth development and civic responsibility.

“I am honoured to be the patron of the Lagos State Scout Council and the Scout Association of Nigeria in Lagos State.,” he said.

Sanwo-Olu commended members of the association for their selfless service and contributions to society.

“A whole lot of times, you have carried out your duties selflessly, without fear or favour and without expecting personal reward.

“I want to thank and commend you on behalf of the people of Lagos State.

“We will continue to strengthen our partnership with the Scout Association and ensure deeper interventions where necessary.

“I have listened carefully to your requests, and I can assure you that they will be attended to in a very short time,” he said.

Sanwo-Olu pledged to do more for the association in his new capacity as patron

Earlier, the DICON boss commended Sanwo-Olu for the developmental strides recorded in Lagos State and appreciated the governor for granting the delegation audience.

“We thank Almighty God for giving Lagos visionary leaders over the years who have taken the state to greater heights,” he said.

Alaya explained that AFRIDEX, scheduled for Oct. 26 to Oct. 29 at Eko Atlantic City, was conceived following a Memorandum of Understanding signed between DICON and DMG Events during the Chief of Defence Staff Conference held last year.

According to him, the exhibition is designed to showcase indigenous defence capabilities, facilitate global collaboration and position Nigeria as Africa’s leading hub for defence and security innovation.

“AFRIDEX is poised to become Africa’s premier defence and security exhibition,” he said.

Alaya disclosed that the exhibition would feature land systems demonstrations, maritime and air displays, cyber and space exhibitions, indoor and simulation shooting ranges, as well as conferences involving defence ministers and security stakeholders from across Africa.

He said more than 500 international exhibitors and about 30,000 participants were expected at the event.

The DICON Director-General added that Bola Tinubu would serve as Chief Host and officially declare the exhibition open.

He appealed to Sanwo-Olu to serve as Grand Patron of AFRIDEX, noting that Lagos would benefit significantly from tourism, hospitality, foreign exchange inflow and increased global visibility.

In his address, the State Scout Commissioner, Oloruntoyin Adebesin, said the investiture was in line with the constitution of the Scout Association of Nigeria.

Adebesin expressed appreciation to the governor for accepting to serve as the patron of the council despite his busy schedule.

“It is my distinct honour and pleasure to formally induct our governor, Mr Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, as the patron of Lagos Scout Council in accordance with our constitution.

“Our profound gratitude goes to His Excellency for graciously taking time to be with us today and for accepting to serve as our patron,” he said.

The scout commissioner described the Scout Movement, founded in 1907, as an organisation committed to youth development and leadership training.

According to him, the movement contributes meaningfully to the development of youths and helps them to become responsible citizens within their local, national and international communities.

“As leaders, we are under obligation to train youths through various stages of development to become useful citizens and positive leaders,” he said.

Adebesin said the association had enjoyed constructive partnership with the Lagos State Government, particularly through the Ministry of Youth and Social Development.

He, however, appealed to the state government to support the council in critical areas to strengthen scouting activities.

According to him, the council requires a new bus and utility vehicle for transportation of camping materials and logistics.

“The last bus donated to us was about 25 years ago during the administration of our former governor, who is now the President of the country.

“We are still using the same bus today,” he said.

Adebesin also requested support for camping equipment, including tents, industrial cooking gas, pots and utensils, as well as continuous donation of scout uniforms for public school students.

He expressed concern over the decline of scouting activities in public schools due to economic challenges affecting parents.

“Scouting is now stronger in private schools because many parents in public schools cannot afford uniforms for their children,” he said.

The commissioner appealed to the government to approve the use of public schools for scouting camps and training programmes.

“If approved, we will ensure proper maintenance and protection of school facilities during our activities,” he said.