Nigus, Elmirate Seal $200m Deal to Boost Nigeria’s Defence Production

Nigeria has recorded a major boost in its quest for defence self-reliance as Nigus International Investment Limited and Elmirate Investment LLC signed a $200 million agreement to develop local defence and satellite production systems.

The agreement, formalised through a memorandum of understanding, is aimed at establishing advanced manufacturing platforms for military hardware, unmanned systems and space-related technologies within the country.

The project will be driven through a special purpose vehicle, Nigus Tactical Systems Ltd, which will coordinate investment inflows, technology transfer and operational execution in line with national security priorities.

The initiative is expected to align with the provisions of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) Act 2023, which seeks to promote indigenous production of defence equipment and reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imports.

Under the arrangement, the partners will focus on key areas including intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) drones, ammunition production, armoured vehicles and cybersecurity infrastructure to strengthen national security architecture.

Executive Chairman of Nigus International Investment Limited, Prince Malik Ado-Ibrahim, said the partnership is designed to build a sustainable industrial base for Nigeria’s defence needs.

According to him, through this partnership, we are working to build a platform in Nigeria that supports innovation, advanced manufacturing and meaningful technology transfer.

“Our objective is to create a sustainable industrial base capable of serving national priorities while contributing to the wider security needs of the region,” he said.

On his part, Managing Director of Elmirate Capital, Pankajj Ghode, expressed confidence in Nigeria’s economic and technological potential, noting that the investment reflects a long-term commitment to the country.

“We are proud to partner with Nigus International on an initiative that aligns with Nigeria’s ambition to become a leading technology and aerospace hub. Our planned commitment of up to $200 million reflects strong confidence in Nigeria’s economic potential.

“By connecting our global network of defence, cybersecurity, aerospace and advanced technology partners with local expertise, we aim to support the development of a resilient ecosystem that drives industrial growth and strengthens regional stability,” he stated.

Consequently, the partnership will also cover satellite development, including earth observation and secure communication systems, a move analysts say could enhance border surveillance, disaster response and overall national security if successfully implemented.