The 17th International Defence Industry Fair (IDEF 2025) opened yesterday in Istanbul, Turkey, with Nigeria’s Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammad Matawalle, MON, representing Nigeria as a distinguished participant. The event, which commenced with the opening ceremony yesterday, Tuesday, 22nd July, will run until 27th July 2025. It brings together military leaders, defense contractors, and technology experts from across the globe to explore cutting-edge military technologies and strengthen international defense collaborations.
At the opening session, President of the Republic of Turkey, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who was the Special Guest of Honour, welcomed all the participants, including Defence Ministers, Chiefs of Defence, and other key defense leaders and officially declared the 17th International Defence Industry Fair (IDEF 2025) open.
IDEF 2025 is one of the largest and most influential defense exhibitions globally, offering a premier platform for showcasing the latest military systems, advanced weaponry, and innovative defense solutions. The fair, organized by the Turkish Armed Forces Foundation (TSKGV) and supported by the Ministry of National Defense of Turkey, is a pivotal forum for highlighting advancements that will shape the future of global security.
This year’s exhibition features a wide array of technological innovations, with a particular emphasis on emerging trends set to define future military operations. The event not only serves as a showcase for cutting-edge defense technologies but also fosters invaluable collaboration among international defense leaders. With over 1,000 exhibitors from more than 40 countries, IDEF 2025 offers Nigeria a significant opportunity to build strategic partnerships, exchange critical knowledge, and discuss solutions to contemporary security challenges.
As Nigeria continues to strengthen its role on the global defense stage and invest in modernizing its defense capabilities to tackle evolving security threats, IDEF 2025 presents an opportunity to engage with the world’s leading defense innovators. The fair also underscores the importance of defense cooperation and technological advancement in fostering a more secure global future.
Ahmad Dan-Wudil
Personal Assistant on Media
Office of the Honourable Minister of State for Defence
Ministry of Defence, Abuja
23rd July 2025
