Matawalle to assess counter-terrorism tech, others at World Defence Expo

The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has said he would be assessing cutting-edge cyber defence tools and counter-terrorism technologies at the World Defence Exhibition.

Terrorism has been a menace in Nigeria as it has caused the deaths of thousands of people and displaced millions, as seen in Plateau State where over a hundred lives have been lost in separate attacks.

A report from the Counter-terrorism Department of the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change reveals that between May 29, 2015, and May 29, 2022, over 55,430 Nigerians lost their lives to terrorist activities.

The report further stated that in 2021 alone, more than 3.2 million Nigerians, predominantly from the North, were forced to leave their homes due to the ongoing crisis.

In a statement on Sunday by his Personal Assistant (Media), Ahmad Dan-Wudil, the minister also said the country would seek international partnerships in addition to staying abreast of technological advancements to enhance the safety and security of Nigerians.

It partly read, “During the four-day exhibition, the Minister of State for Defence will engage in strategic discussions, participate in high-level meetings with international counterparts, and view live demonstrations of advanced military equipment and systems.

“The  Minister for State for Defence considering that Space is becoming an increasingly contested domain, will review satellite communication systems, space surveillance technologies, and anti-satellite weaponry. The minister will also evaluate cutting-edge cyber defence tools and counter-terrorism technologies.”

Dan-Wudil also stated that the minister's schedule involved assessing land defense systems, air defense systems, and sea defense systems.

“The minister's agenda includes examining land defence systems, air defence systems, and sea defence systems: Considering the supervision of the Nigerian Navy falls directly under his purview, the Minister of State for Defence will examine extensively features of the displayed latest naval vessels and maritime surveillance systems. The Minister will also explore the integration of unmanned maritime vehicles,” the statement added.

The PUNCH reports that the World Defence Exhibition which started on Sunday will end on Thursday in Saudi Arabia.

The event will showcase the latest technologies and innovations in crucial defence areas – land, air, sea, and space security.