Business
U.S. Tech Powerhouse Joe Lonsdale Pumps $11.7M into Nigerian Defence Drone Startup and A Strategic Turning Point for African Security and Innovation
U.S. Tech Powerhouse Joe Lonsdale Pumps $11.7M into Nigerian Defence Drone Startup and A Strategic Turning Point for African Security and Innovation.
By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by saharaweeklyng.com
“How Terra Industries, Led by Gen-Z Founders, Aims to Secure Africa’s Critical Infrastructure with Homegrown Autonomous Systems.”
In a landmark development that could reshape Africa’s security technology landscape, American tech billionaire and Trump ally Joe Lonsdale has led a significant $11.7 to 11.8 million funding round into a Nigerian defence technology startup, Terra Industries (formerly Terrahaptix). The investment round, led by Lonsdale’s venture capital firm 8VC, marks one of the largest ventures into Africa’s nascent defence tech sector and signals growing global investor confidence in African innovation grounded in real security challenges.
This strategic infusion of capital has immediate geopolitical, economic and technological implications, but not just for Nigeria but for the entire African continent. It offers hope that African nations can one day escape dependence on foreign military hardware by developing homegrown capabilities tailored to local realities.
Terra Industries: A Homegrown Response to African Security Needs.
Founded in 2024 by two young Nigerian entrepreneurs, Nathan Nwachuku (22) and Maxwell Maduka (24), Terra Industries is more than just a drone maker. Based in Abuja, the company develops and manufactures sophisticated autonomous systems (including long-range and mid-range drones, autonomous sentry towers and (UGVs) unmanned ground vehicles) designed to enhance surveillance, threat detection and response in areas where traditional security forces are overstretched.
According to official statements, Terra’s systems are already deployed to protect critical infrastructure valued at an estimated $11 billion, including hydropower plants in Nigeria and mining operations (gold and lithium) in Ghana. These are facilities that form the backbone of industrial expansion across West Africa but are increasingly vulnerable to insurgent attacks, sabotage and theft.
Terra’s mission encapsulates a pivotal shift: “to give Africa the technological edge needed for resource protection and counterterrorism,” co-founder Nwachuku emphasized, underscoring the urgency of addressing insecurity if economic progress is to endure.
Joe Lonsdale and 8VC: Strategic Capital Meets African Security Tech.
Joe Lonsdale, co-founder of Palantir Technologies and founder of 8VC, has long been a driving force in the global defence-tech ecosystem. His involvement in Terra’s funding round highlights a new frontier: Africa’s security challenges as a technology market.
8VC’s broad investor base in this round includes heavyweight venture firms such as Valor Equity Partners, Lux Capital, SV Angel, Leblon Capital GmbH, Silent Ventures LLC, Nova Global and angel investor Meyer Malka. As noted by multiple reports, Alex Moore (a partner at 8VC and a non-executive director at Palantir) has also joined Terra’s board, signaling a deep and sustained commitment beyond mere capital.
This backing places Terra in an elite category of high-potential defence startups at a time when global investors are increasingly targeting deep tech and sovereign security solutions. According to TechCabal, Terra’s seed round “sets it apart from a wave of smaller regional players” and signals rapid growth in investor confidence in organisations that offer scalable hardware and software defence solutions.
In the words of a respected global security analyst, “Investment in Africa’s defence tech is a defining moment, where necessity intersects with innovation. Investors today recognise that insecurity is not just a social problem but an economic barrier that tech can help dismantle.”
Why This Investment Matters: Africa’s Insecurity Landscape.
Africa’s security environment has deteriorated sharply in recent years, especially across the Sahel and West Africa. Extremist groups, including factions linked to Islamic State and al-Qaeda, have expanded operations from Mali through Burkina Faso to Nigeria. Governments struggle with stretched security forces, limited budgets and vast terrains that are difficult to monitor using conventional methods.
In this context, autonomous systems (drones, sensors, and networked defence platforms) can play a decisive role in deterrence, early warning and operational response. According to defence industry expert Dr. Marcus Rockefeller, “Autonomous technologies are the force multipliers of the 21st century. They allow nations with limited manpower to monitor vast areas, respond faster and reduce human risk in dangerous environments.”
Terra’s focus on integrating hardware and software into a comprehensive platform (reportedly including an operating system known as ArtemisOS) creates a sophisticated, unified battlefield picture that security forces can leverage in real time. This approach mirrors trends in Western defence tech but is uniquely tailored to African terrains and threats.
The Implications for Nigeria’s Industrial and Security Policy.
Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy, has long battled domestic and regional security threats, from Boko Haram and ISWAP in the northeast to banditry in the northwest. Despite decades of military spending, reliance on imported hardware and foreign training programmes, substantive progress has been elusive.
Terra’s rise signals a potent alternative: local innovation forging local solutions. As the World Bank notes, investment in technology and infrastructure resilience is essential for sustainable growth. Local manufacturing (especially in high-tech sectors) boosts job creation, builds technical ecosystems, and reduces dependency on external suppliers.
Professor Nkechi Onyema, an expert in African industrial development, observes: “When young Africans solve African problems, the solutions are not just technologically sound but contextually relevant. This is the moment Africa needs an era where we do not just import defence tech but pioneer it.”
What’s Next: Scaling, Security and Global Partnerships.
The new funding will be directed toward expanding manufacturing capacity, deepening Terra’s software capabilities, and supporting broader cross-border security and counter-terrorism deployments across Africa. Terra has signaled its ambition to become Africa’s first true defence prime which is a company capable of serving governments, infrastructure operators and strategic partners with scalable, sovereign technology.
Analysts say this model could reduce Africa’s reliance on foreign defence contractors and a dependency that historically left African governments beholden to external geopolitical interests.
Yet challenges remain: ensuring ethical use of autonomous systems, regulatory frameworks across multiple jurisdictions and balancing defence and civil liberties remain complex. Still, as African security landscapes evolve, the need for smart, local and scalable solutions is undeniable.
Final Take.
Joe Lonsdale’s investment in Terra Industries is more than a financial transaction, though it is a strategic vote of confidence in Africa’s capacity to lead technologically in the face of its greatest security challenges. It is a call to action for governments, private sector partners and young innovators across the continent to unite around a shared vision: security forged with African ingenuity and global collaboration.
In the words of Terra co-founder Nathan Nwachuku, “The future of African security must be shaped by Africans. We are determined to lead that future with solutions that are powerful, affordable and built for us.”
This pivotal moment is not just about drones. It is about Africa asserting technological sovereignty and a future where African defence innovation stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the world’s best.
Business
14 Reasons Nigerians Should Own Property with the Trusted Real Estate Brand
14 Reasons Nigerians Should Own Property with the Trusted Real Estate Brand
As part of activities marking its 14 years of transforming Nigeria’s real estate landscape, Adron Homes and Properties has unveiled 14 compelling reasons why individuals and families should consider owning property with the company reinforcing its commitment to accessible, stylish, and sustainable homeownership.
In a statement released by the company, Adron Homes described property ownership not just as an investment but as a strategic lifestyle decision rooted in long-term security, wealth creation, and community development. The company noted that over the past 14 years, it has remained consistent in providing affordable housing solutions while delivering well-planned estates that cater to diverse income levels.
According to the statement, Adron Homes’ success is anchored in its strong value proposition, which ranges from affordable pricing and flexible payment structures to prime estate locations nationwide. The company emphasized that its gated communities are designed with security, modern architectural standards, and structured infrastructure that ensure comfort and functionality for residents.
Adron Homes further highlighted its transparent documentation process and verified property titles, which have continued to boost investor confidence and encourage long-term property ownership among Nigerians at home and in the diaspora. The company added that its developments are intentionally designed to promote thriving communities, environmental sustainability, and long-term urban planning.
With a proven track record of helping thousands of customers achieve their property dreams, Adron Homes reaffirmed its commitment to delivering high-value investments that appreciate over time while maintaining strong customer service support from initial inquiry to allocation and beyond.
The organisation also noted its culture of appreciation for clients, partners, and staff through consistent reward programmes and promotional incentives. This strategy has strengthened loyalty and deepened engagement across its growing customer base.
Reflecting on its 14-year journey, Adron Homes reiterated that its mission goes beyond selling land and houses; it focuses on building vibrant communities where families thrive, investments grow, and futures are secured. The company encouraged Nigerians to take advantage of its flexible ownership opportunities, stressing that the best time to invest in property is now.
As it continues to expand its footprint across Nigeria, Adron Homes remains committed to innovation, excellence, and redefining the real estate experience through sustainable developments that stand the test of time.
Business
Ogun Unveils Plan for ₦1bn AI-Driven Digital Classroom at Remo Secondary School
Ogun Unveils Plan for ₦1bn AI-Driven Digital Classroom at Remo Secondary School
The Ogun State Government has announced plans to deliver a 900-capacity, Artificial Intelligence-enabled digital learning complex at Remo Secondary School, Sagamu, in a move aimed at strengthening technology-based education across the state.
Governor Dapo Abiodun disclosed activities marking the institution’s 80th anniversary, noting that the proposed facility represents a deliberate investment in modern learning infrastructure designed to prepare students for a rapidly evolving, knowledge-driven global economy.
He explained that the digital classroom project complements ongoing smart-education initiatives within the school, which already features a functional resource centre and a state-of-the-art robotics laboratory established to nurture innovation, problem-solving skills, and digital competence among learners.
Reaffirming his commitment to the school’s growth, the governor announced a financial pledge of ₦100m, stating that ₦50m representing half of the amount would be released immediately to kick-start development efforts. He also assured stakeholders that at least one of the outlined projects would be fully executed before the end of his administration.
Abiodun further disclosed that the state government had upgraded the school’s science laboratories, equipping them with modern facilities and teaching tools to ensure safer and more effective practical learning experiences for students.
He added that renovation works had also been completed on both the male and female hostels to improve accommodation standards, enhance security, and promote the overall well-being of boarding students.
Describing Remo Secondary School as a symbol of enduring heritage, the governor said the anniversary celebration went beyond mere commemoration of years of existence, emphasising the institution’s long-standing role in shaping generations of leaders and professionals.
He praised members of the old students’ association for their unwavering support and contributions to the school’s development, stressing that their collective efforts demonstrate a shared commitment to sustaining its legacy of excellence.
According to him, the projects and improvements carried out at the school reflect a strong belief in education as a foundation for future growth, as well as the power of collaboration between government, alumni, and the wider community.
Abiodun also revealed that the institution had been recognised as one of Ogun State’s model schools, urging students to remain focused on their academic pursuits, uphold strong moral values, and continue the tradition of excellence for which the school is known.
Business
BUA Group Chairman, Abdul Samad Rabiu, Calls for Shift from Extraction to Value Addition at AFC Event during Mining Indaba 2026
BUA Group Chairman, Abdul Samad Rabiu, Calls for Shift from Extraction to Value Addition at AFC Event during Mining Indaba 2026
Cape Town, South Africa
Founder and Executive Chairman of BUA Group, Abdul Samad Rabiu CFR CON, has called for a decisive shift in Africa’s development strategy, urging governments, financiers, and the private sector to move the continent from raw material extraction to large scale industrial processing and value addition.
Rabiu made the remarks as Special Guest of Honour at an Africa Finance Corporation forum during Mining Indaba 2026, where African leaders, policymakers, financiers, and industry executives gathered to discuss the future of mining, industrialisation, and real sector development on the continent.
Commending AFC for its role in mobilising long term capital for Africa’s industrial sectors, Rabiu noted that the institution’s leadership and recent S&P Global rating with a positive outlook underscored the importance of strong development finance institutions in shaping Africa’s growth trajectory.
Drawing from BUA Group’s experience, he recounted the company’s decision over sixteen years ago to transition from cement importation to local production in Nigeria, despite the capital intensity and long gestation periods associated with mining and heavy industry.
“At the time, Nigeria was importing cement despite being richly endowed with limestone,” Rabiu said. “We were spending more time chasing foreign exchange than selling cement. The real question was not whether the resources existed, but whether there was enough conviction to stop importing and start producing locally.”
Today, he noted, BUA mines and processes about forty thousand tonnes of limestone daily, producing roughly one million tonnes of cement every month. That shift has helped Nigeria move from being a cement importer to a net exporter, saving the country billions of dollars in foreign exchange annually.
Rabiu stressed that such transformation would not have been possible without patient, long term financing from DFIs, particularly the Africa Finance Corporation, which has supported BUA’s cement and industrial operations with over four hundred million dollars in financing.
He added that a significant portion of those facilities has already been repaid, demonstrating that well structured African industrial projects are not only developmental but also commercially viable and recyclable.
Turning to the broader continental picture, Rabiu highlighted what he described as a structural paradox: Africa remains one of the world’s most resource rich regions, yet exports the bulk of its minerals and agricultural produce in raw or minimally processed form.
He cited examples across gold, cobalt, copper, iron ore, diamonds, and cocoa, noting that while Africa supplies much of the world’s raw inputs, it captures only a fraction of the value created downstream.
“Africa does not lack resources,” he said. “What it lacks is processing capacity, industrial scale, and disciplined execution.”
He argued that the same challenge extends beyond mining into agriculture, where Africa holds a majority of the world’s arable land yet continues to import billions of dollars’ worth of food annually.
Rabiu called for coordinated action among governments, DFIs, and the private sector, urging DFIs to scale long term financing targeted at beneficiation and industrial value chains, while governments adopt deliberate policies that incentivise local processing and invest in power, transport, and industrial infrastructure.
“Industrialisation does not happen by accident,” he said. “Countries that industrialised did so by design, not by chance. Africa must do the same.”
He concluded by stressing that Africa’s opportunity lies in aligning private enterprise, patient capital, and supportive policy to move the continent from extraction to transformation, and from potential to shared prosperity.
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