Writing By Khadijah Aliyu; Editing By Godwin Duru
The Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology (FMIST), has unveiled a flagship initiative tagged Energise Commercialisation Now (ECoN), aimed at driving innovation and accelerating industrial growth across the country.
The Kano State Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Waiya, disclosed this while briefing Journalists on the state’s preparations to host the programme’s national launch and North-West zonal rollout.
He said Kano State has been selected to host the historic event, which will be officially launched by the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu.
According to the commissioner, the ECoN initiative is designed to mobilise innovation, attract investment, and fast-track the commercialisation of research outputs across Nigeria’s six geo-political zones.
Waiya explained that the three-day event is scheduled to hold from April 23 to April 25, 2026, in Kano, and will feature a range of high-level engagements and activities.
He outlined that the first day will focus on political leadership and national mobilisation, bringing together key government stakeholders to drive policy alignment and commitment.
According to him, the second day will centre on innovation discovery, exhibition, and evaluation, where researchers, inventors, and startups will showcase their ideas and products.
The Commissioner emphasised the strategic importance of the initiative, noting that the North-West, with Kano as its commercial hub, is rich in agricultural resources, textile potential, solid minerals, and entrepreneurial talent.
He added that the programme would also prepare local innovators for participation in international trade platforms, including the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) 2027.
The commissioner noted that the initiative aligns with Kano State Government’s agenda on job creation, wealth generation, promotion of local content, and export-driven industrialization.
KHADIJAH ALIYU
