At MBO Capital, we remain committed to supporting businesses and infrastructure that drive sustainable economic growth across Africa. Our investment approach continues to focus on sectors that strengthen productivity, create jobs, and unlock long-term value for communities and industries alike.
Construction continues to advance at The Lagos Arena, a 12,000-capacity indoor venue expected to become a landmark destination for sports, entertainment, and cultural experiences in Nigeria.
MBO Capital invested in the project in 2020 and maintains an equity stake in the development, which is projected to be completed by February 2028. Beyond its commercial significance, the Arena will contribute meaningfully to the growth of Nigeria’s creative economy by hosting large-scale live events, expanding opportunities for creators and athletes, and stimulating economic activity across hospitality, tourism, and retail sectors.
In the film sector, Clarissa, MCM’s single largest investment in the movie sector to date which stars Hollywood actors, David Oyelowo, Ayo Edebiri and Sophie Okeondo, was selected for the Directors’ Fortnight (Quinzaine des Cinéastes) at the 2026 Cannes Film Festival, one of 19 features handpicked for the prestigious independent sidebar at the 58th edition that ran from May 13 to 23, 2026.
At its premiere on the 16th of May, Clarissa received a standing ovation and has since drawn widespread critical acclaim. Reviews from the New York Times, The Guardian, The Hollywood Reporter, Variety, and Screen Daily have been uniformly positive, with critics singling out the Esiri brothers’ confident direction, Jonathan Bloom’s cinematography, and Sophie Okonedo’s performance as particular strengths. Several publications have already positioned the film as an awards contender ahead of its US theatrical release through Neon.
This recognition reinforces MBO Capital’s belief that strategic investment in the creative sector can support the global distribution and commercialisation of African stories while strengthening the continent’s cultural and economic influence.
One of our portfolio companies, Aurelia, through its wholly owned Nigerian subsidiary, Iron Ore Mining Limited, acquired a mining licence in 2014 to explore for gold, silver, and lead at the Babban Tsauni mining site, located just outside Abuja.
Following MBO Capital’s early-stage investment in 2024, the company has now reached a significant operational milestone by transitioning to excavation activities. In May 2026, Aurelia Mining commenced gold production at its flagship Babban Tsauni mining site near Abuja, FCT, Nigeria. While the broader area has experienced extensive artisanal mining activity for decades, the targeted zone remains largely untapped, consisting of a gravel horizon beneath a shallow clay overburden of approximately 0.5–2 metres deep.
This progress represents an important advancement not only for the business but also for the broader mining value chain, supporting industrial activity, employment generation, and export potential.
MBO Capital Management Limited is regulated by the Securities and Exchange Commission of Nigeria and is authorized to act as a Private Equity Fund Manager.
