Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has officially launched the Energise Commercialisation Now (ECoN) initiative in Kano, describing it as a strategic step toward strengthening the country’s innovation ecosystem and accelerating economic diversification.
Speaking at the national launch, Senator Tinubu said the initiative aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which prioritises industrialisation, digitalisation, manufacturing, creative industries, and innovation.
She emphasised the need for Nigeria to transition from exporting raw materials to building systems that fund, scale, and commercialise innovation for sustainable national development and global competitiveness.
According to her, Nigeria is rich in creativity, with innovative ideas emerging daily from universities, research institutions, innovation hubs, and the country’s youthful population. Despite existing challenges, she noted that Nigerian innovators continue to excel globally, particularly in fintech and enterprise development.
She said the initiative would drive enterprise growth, create jobs, and boost the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), while also stressing the need for inclusivity through greater participation of women and youth.
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“At this juncture, to the glory of God, I officially launch Energise Commercialisation Now for the benefit of our entire nation, starting from the North-West and extending to all geopolitical zones,” she declared.
In his remarks, Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, described the selection of Kano as host of the national launch as a vote of confidence in the state’s readiness to lead innovation-driven transformation in Northern Nigeria.
He noted that the initiative is designed to bridge the long-standing gap between research, innovation, and the marketplace.
The governor also highlighted ongoing efforts by his administration to strengthen digital governance, including the establishment of the Kano State Information Technology Development Agency, expansion of ICT infrastructure, and revitalisation of science and technical education.
Earlier, the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Kingsley Udeh, described the launch as a major milestone in repositioning science, technology, and innovation as key drivers of economic growth.
He observed that while Nigeria produces high-quality research and innovation, many outcomes remain uncommercialised due to limited access to markets and financing.
The event attracted high-profile dignitaries, including the Deputy President of the Senate, Barau Jibrin, the Governor of Jigawa State, as well as representatives of governors from Kebbi, Katsina, Sokoto, Kaduna, and Zamfara states. Also in attendance were First Ladies of the seven North-West states, members of the House of Representatives, senators, ministers, and traditional rulers.