UAE Firm Commits $200m to Boost Nigeria’s Defence, Satellite Technology

A United Arab Emirates-based investment firm, Elmirate Investment LLC, has pledged up to $200 million to develop defence technology, satellite systems, and advanced manufacturing capabilities in Nigeria.

The firm, also known as Elmirate Capital, disclosed the investment plan following the signing of a strategic memorandum of understanding with Nigus International Investment Limited.

The initiative is expected to strengthen Nigeria’s local defence production capacity, expand its technological base, and reduce dependence on imported security equipment.

According to both parties, the project will operate under Nigeria’s regulatory framework through the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria, in line with the provisions of the DICON Act 2023.

Execution will be handled through a newly established special purpose vehicle, Nigus Tactical Systems Ltd, which will serve as the core platform for investment, technology integration, and operational rollout.

Managing Director of Elmirate Capital, Pankajj Ghode, said the commitment reflects confidence in Nigeria’s economic outlook and long-term potential.

“By leveraging our global network across defence, cybersecurity, aerospace, and advanced technologies, we aim to build a resilient ecosystem that drives industrial growth and enhances regional stability,” he said.

Executive Chairman of Nigus International, Malik Ado-Ibrahim, added that the partnership is designed to create a robust industrial base capable of supporting both national security and technological advancement.

The planned platform will focus on developing advanced manufacturing systems to support modern security infrastructure.

Key areas include:

Tactical and ISR (intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance) drones

Unmanned aerial systems (UAS)

Counter-terrorism surveillance technologies

Ammunition and munitions production

Armoured vehicles and protected mobility systems

These capabilities will be supported by integrated intelligence platforms and advanced monitoring systems aimed at strengthening border security and defence operations.

Beyond hardware, the partnership also targets digital defence infrastructure, including:

Cyber defence systems

Military-grade cybersecurity platforms

Cyber ranges for training and simulation

The investment signals rising global interest in Nigeria’s defence technology space as the country seeks to address persistent security challenges while building local capacity.

It also aligns with a broader shift toward domestic production and technology transfer within Africa’s defence and security ecosystem.

Recent developments underscore this trend. Abuja-based startup Terrahaptix Inc. recently raised fresh capital to scale its surveillance and infrastructure protection systems, highlighting growing investor appetite in the sector.

With fresh capital, global partnerships, and a focus on local manufacturing, Nigeria is positioning itself as an emerging hub for defence technology in Africa—where security, innovation, and industrial growth increasingly intersect.