The First Lady of Nigeria, Oluremi Tinubu, is set to officially launch Energise Commercialisation Now (ECoN), a Federal Government-backed innovation and industrialisation initiative, in Kano on Thursday, April 23, 2026.
The programme, designed to bridge the gap between research, innovation, and market-ready products, is expected to play a key role in driving industrial growth and economic diversification across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. Its core focus is to mobilise local innovation, attract both domestic and foreign investment, and accelerate large-scale production.
The Kano State Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Waiya, disclosed details of the initiative during a press briefing, noting that the state will host a three-day national launch and North-West zonal rollout from April 23 to April 25.
According to him, Kano’s selection as host reflects its strategic importance in Nigeria’s commercial and manufacturing ecosystem, particularly within the North-West region. He described the event as a significant milestone that will position the state as a hub for innovation-led economic transformation.
“The landmark event will place Kano State and the entire North-West geopolitical zone at the forefront of Nigeria’s innovation-driven economic transformation,” Waiya stated.
He further noted that the initiative is being spearheaded by the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology as a flagship programme aimed at converting ideas into commercially viable products and services.
The event is expected to attract a wide range of stakeholders, including federal and state government representatives, governors, and First Ladies from across the North-West. Participation will also include research institutions, universities, polytechnics, and a growing community of innovators, inventors, and startups.
Private sector players, manufacturers, development finance institutions, and international partners are also expected to attend, alongside traditional rulers and community leaders. This broad participation reflects the government’s intention to build a collaborative ecosystem that supports innovation from concept to commercial scale.
Following the official launch, activities will include a high-level panel discussion focused on strengthening federal-state collaboration in innovation and industrialisation. A curated exhibition showcasing selected innovations will also form part of the programme.
Waiya expressed optimism that with sustained support from the First Lady and relevant stakeholders, the ECoN initiative will unlock Nigeria’s vast innovation potential, create jobs, and deliver long-term economic value across multiple sectors.
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