Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has launched a new federal initiative aimed at transforming the country’s vast pool of ideas into tangible economic value, as part of efforts to drive growth, job creation and global competitiveness.
Speaking at the unveiling of the programme, she said Nigeria remains rich in creativity, with groundbreaking ideas emerging daily from universities, innovation hubs and its energetic youth population.
However, she noted that many of these ideas fail to translate into real-world solutions due to systemic challenges common in emerging economies.
Despite these limitations, the First Lady said Nigerian innovators continue to excel globally, particularly in sectors such as fintech and enterprise, demonstrating what is possible when innovation is matched with opportunity.
She stressed the need to bridge the gap by creating an enabling environment where ideas are supported, talent is nurtured and innovation is allowed to thrive.
According to her, the Federal Government is now focused on driving productivity and growth by effectively commercialising research outputs and innovations across all sectors and regions.
“This means transforming ideas into economic value, driving enterprise, creating jobs and growing our GDP,” she said.
The initiative, described as a strategic intervention, signals Nigeria’s shift from an economy reliant on exporting raw materials to one that builds, funds and scales homegrown innovation for national development.
Mrs Tinubu added that the programme aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which prioritises diversification through industrialisation, digitalisation, manufacturing, creative industries and innovation.
She also emphasised inclusivity, calling for greater participation of women and young people in the innovation ecosystem, noting that widespread idea development across society would lead to more jobs, stronger families and enhanced national security.
The First Lady formally launched the programme in Kano State, stating that it would be implemented across all geopolitical zones.
She concluded by expressing optimism about the country’s future, declaring that the initiative would benefit the entire nation and strengthen Nigeria’s position in the global innovation landscape.
