The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has launched the North-West Zone of the “Energise Commercialisation Now” (ECoN) initiative in Kano State, describing it as a strategic effort to drive innovation, industrial growth, and economic development across the country.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, is designed to support the commercialisation of research outputs and innovative ideas into viable economic ventures.
Speaking at the launch, Senator Tinubu said the programme aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on strengthening Nigeria’s productive and industrial base.
She noted that Nigeria remains rich in creativity and innovation, adding that many promising ideas from universities, innovation hubs, and young Nigerians often fail to reach the market due to structural challenges common in emerging economies.
According to her, the ECoN initiative is aimed at addressing these gaps by creating an enabling environment where innovation is supported, talent is nurtured, and ideas are transformed into real economic value.
She emphasized that the programme will help drive enterprise development, job creation, and overall economic growth, while positioning Nigeria for global competitiveness in science and technology.
Senator Tinubu also called for inclusivity in the implementation of the initiative, stressing the importance of involving women and young people in innovation-driven development.
She commended the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh, for championing the initiative.
Goodwill messages were delivered by representatives of private sector partners, Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf, Jigawa State Governor Umar Namadi, and Deputy Senate President Senator Jibrin Barau, who all described the initiative as timely and impactful for Nigeria’s economic advancement.
In a related development, the First Lady joined Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf to inaugurate the construction of a 118-kilometre road project named after her. The project, which is expected to be completed within 14 months, is scheduled for delivery in April 2026.
