The First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, is set to inaugurate the Federal Government’s “Energise Commercialisation Now” (ECoN) initiative in Kano.
The announcement follows preparations by the Kano State Government to host the national rollout and North-West zonal deployment of the programme.
Addressing reporters on Thursday in Kano, the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Waiya, said the high-profile event is scheduled for April 23 to 25.
Waiya explained that the initiative, led by the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, is designed to “mobilise innovation, attract investment, and accelerate industrial production across the six geo-political zones.”
He said Kano was chosen to host both the national inauguration and North-West deployment in recognition of its strategic role as a commercial and industrial hub.
“The event will place Kano State and the entire North-West geopolitical zone at the forefront of Nigeria’s innovation-driven economic transformation. The programme will bring together federal and state officials, investors, innovators, research institutions, manufacturers, and international partners to explore opportunities in innovation and industrialisation,” he said.
According to Waiya, the three-day event will feature political mobilisation on the first day, innovation exhibitions and evaluations on the second day, and investment-focused deal rooms on the final day.
He noted that the initiative aims to bridge the gap between research and market by identifying viable innovations, linking inventors with investors, and providing support such as intellectual property advisory and access to finance.
Waiya expressed confidence that the programme would drive job creation, boost local manufacturing, and position Nigeria for export-led growth.
“Energise Commercialisation Now will unlock the innovative potential of our people and create lasting prosperity,” he said.
