ABUJA, Feb 23 – Terra Industries, a Nigerian defence technology startup specializing in drone systems and proprietary surveillance software, has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) to establish a joint venture focused on domestic production of advanced defence and security technologies.
The agreement will lead to the creation of a Joint Venture Company that will operate as a subsidiary of DICON and be jointly owned and promoted by both organizations. The partnership is designed to strengthen Nigeria’s defence manufacturing capabilities by localising the production, assembly, and development of critical high-technology systems.
Under the terms of the agreement, the joint venture will focus on research and development, manufacturing, and training across key technology areas, including unmanned aerial vehicles, cybersecurity infrastructure, robotics, and related software and hardware platforms. The initiative aligns with the DICON Act 2023, which authorizes the corporation to collaborate with indigenous and international defence firms through structured public-private partnerships.
The partnership is expected to establish advanced production and assembly facilities within Nigeria, enabling meaningful technology transfer, workforce training, and the development of specialised technical skills. It also aims to promote local sourcing of materials and reduce the country’s dependence on imported defence equipment.
In addition to strengthening domestic manufacturing capacity, the joint venture will support the supply of advanced security technologies to Nigerian security agencies and authorized institutions. The move is intended to enhance national security infrastructure while positioning Nigeria as a potential regional hub for defence innovation and production.
Terra Industries will contribute technical expertise, engineering support, and professional services to the venture, including facilitating access to global defence supply chains, manufacturing equipment, and training programmes. The company will also support efforts to attract local and international investment into Nigeria’s defence technology ecosystem.
DICON Director-General Maj. Gen. B.I. Alaya described the agreement as a major step toward expanding Nigeria’s defence manufacturing base and reducing reliance on foreign imports. Terra Industries Chief Executive Officer Nathaniel Nwachukwu said the partnership highlights growing confidence in Nigeria’s indigenous engineering capabilities and provides a foundation for long-term innovation and export competitiveness.
The initiative is expected to accelerate Nigeria’s development of indigenous defence technologies, create skilled employment opportunities, and strengthen the country’s position in advanced manufacturing, cybersecurity, and drone production across Africa.
