Nigeria has moved closer to building a stronger and more independent defence industry following a new agreement between the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) and Terra Industries Limited. The two organisations have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to create a Joint Venture Company that will focus on producing and developing defence technology inside Nigeria.
The agreement follows the DICON Act of 2023, which allows DICON to work with private companies to grow local defence manufacturing. Under the arrangement, the new Joint Venture Company will be registered in Nigeria and will operate as a subsidiary of DICON, with both DICON and Terra Industries sharing ownership.
The partnership will support the local production and assembly of modern security and defence equipment which includes drones, cybersecurity systems, robotics, and related software and hardware. The project also places strong emphasis on research, innovation, and training, so Nigerian professionals can gain the skills needed to work with advanced technology.
By producing more equipment locally, the initiative aims to reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported defence products. It will also encourage the use of local raw materials and help grow the country’s industrial capacity, giving Nigeria greater control over its defence needs.
The Joint Venture Company is expected to supply equipment to Nigerian security agencies and other approved institutions. Over time, the partnership could help position Nigeria as a key centre for defence manufacturing and high-technology development in the region.
As part of the agreement, Terra Industries will provide technical expertise, professional support, and training. The company will also help source production equipment, share manufacturing knowledge, and connect the project to local and international supply chains. In addition, it will support efforts to attract investment into Nigeria’s defence industry.
Speaking at the signing, the Director General of DICON, Major General B. I. Alaya, described the agreement as an important step toward reducing imports and strengthening Nigeria’s defence manufacturing base. The Chief Executive Officer of Terra Industries, Nathaniel Nwachukwu, said the partnership shows growing confidence in Nigerian engineering talent and offers a sustainable path for defence technology development and future exports.
The project is expected to create skilled jobs for young Nigerians, support innovation, and strengthen Nigeria’s ambition to become a regional hub for defence technology, research, and specialised training.
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