By Ayomide Otitoju
Nigus International Investment Limited and Elmirate Investment LLC (Elmirate Capital) have signed a strategic memorandum of understanding to develop a next-generation defence technology, satellite systems and advanced manufacturing platform in Nigeria, with planned investments of up to $200 million.
The agreement aims to position Nigeria as a key hub for defence, aerospace and advanced technology development in Africa, while strengthening national security capabilities and industrial growth.
Executive Chairman of Nigus International, Malik Ado-Ibrahim, said the partnership reflects Africa’s growing need to build technological capacity as a driver of economic strength and security. He noted that the initiative is designed to promote innovation, enable technology transfer and establish a sustainable industrial base capable of addressing both national and regional security needs.
Managing Director of Elmirate Capital, Pankajj Ghode, said the planned investment underscores confidence in Nigeria’s economic potential. He added that the collaboration would leverage Elmirate’s global network across defence, cybersecurity, aerospace and advanced technology to support the development of a resilient industrial ecosystem.
The project will be executed through a newly established special purpose vehicle, Nigus Tactical Systems Ltd, which will serve as the central platform for investment, technology integration and operations. It will operate under Nigeria’s regulatory framework, including oversight by the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), in line with the DICON Act 2023.
According to the partners, the initiative is designed to support Nigeria’s push toward sovereign defence capabilities by strengthening domestic production and reducing reliance on imported security infrastructure.
The planned platform will focus on advanced manufacturing across multiple areas, including defence systems production, unmanned aerial systems and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) technologies. It will also cover the production of ammunition, armoured vehicles and mobility systems, supported by integrated surveillance and data intelligence solutions.
In addition, the partnership will extend into cyber defence and digital security infrastructure, including the development of cyber defence platforms and training systems to address emerging threats.
Satellite and space-based technologies will form a key component of the initiative, with plans to develop earth observation systems, communications infrastructure and secure satellite networks for both defence and civilian applications.
The collaboration is expected to contribute to the creation of an integrated defence and space ecosystem in Nigeria, combining geospatial intelligence, advanced surveillance and modern manufacturing capabilities to support national security and regional stability.
