ABUJA, Nigeria, March 16, 2026 — Nigus International Investment Limited and Elmirate Investment LLC (Elmirate Capital) have signed a strategic memorandum of understanding to develop a next-generation defense technology, satellite systems and advanced manufacturing platform in Nigeria. The initiative is backed by a planned investment of up to $200 million.
HRH Prince Malik Ado-Ibrahim, Executive Chairman of Nigus International Investment Limited, said Africa is entering a pivotal phase where technological capability will increasingly shape economic strength and national security. He noted that the partnership aims to build a platform in Nigeria that supports innovation, advanced manufacturing and technology transfer, while establishing a sustainable industrial base capable of serving national priorities and broader regional security needs.
Pankajj Ghode, Managing Director of Elmirate Capital, said the partnership aligns with Nigeria’s ambition to develop into a leading technology and aerospace hub. He added that the planned investment reflects confidence in Nigeria’s economic potential and aims to connect global defense, cybersecurity, aerospace and advanced technology partners with local expertise to create a resilient ecosystem that supports industrial growth and regional stability.
Nigeria moves toward sovereign defense capabilities
The collaboration will be implemented through a newly established Special Purpose Vehicle, Nigus Tactical Systems Ltd, which will act as the central platform for investment, technology integration and operational development. The initiative is designed to support Nigeria’s efforts to strengthen domestic defense production, expand advanced technology capabilities and reduce dependence on imported security infrastructure.
The partnership will operate within Nigeria’s regulatory framework under the Defense Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) and in accordance with the provisions of the DICON Act 2023. By combining international technology partnerships with local leadership, the project aims to accelerate the development of high-value industrial capabilities while supporting national security and economic development.
Building an integrated defense and space ecosystem
The initiative will focus on building advanced manufacturing capabilities that support multiple layers of modern security infrastructure. A key component is the development of Class C local defense manufacturing platforms that enable Nigeria to produce critical systems domestically while strengthening industrial self-reliance.
The project will also explore the development of tactical and ISR drones, along with other unmanned aerial systems designed to enhance situational awareness and operational readiness. These capabilities will be complemented by advanced counter-terror surveillance and intelligence systems that incorporate modern data analysis and monitoring technologies.
Manufacturing activities are expected to include ammunition and munitions production, as well as the development of armored vehicles and protected mobility systems suited to modern operational environments. These capabilities will be supported by advanced surveillance technologies and integrated intelligence platforms designed to strengthen border security and national defense operations.
Positioning Nigeria as a regional technology hub
Beyond traditional defense manufacturing, the partnership plans to expand into cyber defense and digital security infrastructure. This includes the development of military cyber defense platforms and cyber ranges that support training, testing and resilience against emerging digital threats.
Satellite technologies and space-based intelligence systems are also expected to play a key role in the initiative. Planned capabilities include earth observation technologies, communications infrastructure and secure satellite networks that could support both defense and civilian applications.
By integrating geospatial intelligence, satellite data and advanced surveillance capabilities, the project aims to contribute to the development of a comprehensive space and defense ecosystem in Nigeria.
About Nigus International Investment Limited
Nigus International Investment Limited is a global investment and strategic development firm focused on infrastructure, energy, defense and emerging technologies. The company works with governments, institutional partners and private sector stakeholders to develop large-scale projects that support economic growth, technology transfer and industrial development across multiple regions.
About Elmirate Investment LLC
Elmirate Capital is a global investment and advisory firm headquartered in the United Arab Emirates. The company specializes in defense, aerospace, cybersecurity, advanced technology and strategic industrial investments, working with international partners to develop technology-driven projects that strengthen national capabilities and support sustainable industrial growth.
