Qatar’s national defence and security company, Barzan Holdings, has showcased its defence technologies and industrial capabilities at the 2026 Africa International Defence Exhibition (AFRIDEX) in Lagos, highlighting opportunities for collaboration with Nigerian stakeholders to support the country’s evolving security needs.

The company, which sponsored the exhibition, used the event to engage Nigerian defence representatives on potential commercial, technological and industrial partnerships across its four business sectors: weapons and ammunition, advanced technology, platforms, and services, support and accessories.

Also read: Intense Group marks 11 years, targets bigger growth

Beyond supplying defence equipment, Barzan Holdings offers services across the defence lifecycle, including training, maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), and technical support.

Its technology portfolio includes unmanned surface vessels and unmanned aerial vehicles designed for surveillance and intelligence operations.

The company also offers command-and-control systems intended to improve situational awareness and support operational decision-making.

At the exhibition, Barzan Holdings also presented its weapons portfolio, including the Q1 Corner rifle and its recently launched BIG556 rifles, available in 4.5-inch and 7-inch configurations. Both BIG556 variants are designed and manufactured in Qatar.

Speaking at AFRIDEX, the company’s Regional General Manager for Africa and Managing Director of DICON-SUR, Engineer Thamer Al Emadi, described the exhibition as an important opportunity to engage key defence stakeholders, demonstrate Barzan’s technological capabilities and identify areas of cooperation that align with Nigeria’s defence priorities.

“We are here at AFRIDEX to discuss Nigeria’s defence needs and explore how Barzan Holdings can support them through the supply of modern defence products and services, as well as potential industrial and technology partnerships,” Al Emadi said.

He added that the company was open to developing solutions tailored to the specific requirements of the Nigerian Defence Forces.

“We are open to developing solutions that address the specific requirements of the Nigerian Defence Forces and contribute to strengthening the country’s sovereign security,” he said.

Barzan Holdings’ participation highlights the potential for deeper defence industry cooperation between Qatar and Nigeria, particularly in technology development, equipment support and industrial partnerships.

Also read: Intense Group marks 11 years, targets bigger growth

However, the company’s statement did not disclose any agreements concluded at the exhibition or specific projects arising from its engagements with Nigerian stakeholders.