ECoN Launches in Kano as Federal Government Moves to Turn Innovation into Wealth
The Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology has announced a strategic collaboration with the Kano State Government and key stakeholders in the North West ahead of the official launch of the Energise Commercialisation Now (ECoN) programme.
Championed by the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the ECoN programme commences on Thursday, April 24, in Kano.
Speaking at a press briefing held in the State on Thursday, April 24, the Minister, Dr. Kingsley Udeh, described ECoN as a flagship national initiative to transform Nigeria’s research outputs, intellectual property, and innovative ideas into commercially viable products that drive economic growth, industrialisation, and job creation.
He noted that the partnership with Kano State to host the North West zone is critical for inclusive, regionally balanced development, stressing that ECoN will bridge the long-standing gap between ideas and market value by linking innovators with industry, investors, and government support.
The Kano State Government, alongside key institutions including the National Board for Technology Incubation (NBTI), Sheda Science and Technology Complex (SHESTCO), and National Biotechnology Development Agency (NABDA), will mobilise innovators and strengthen the regional ecosystem through technology transfer, funding access, and commercialisation support.
Aligned with the Federal Government’s agenda on economic diversification and youth empowerment, the initiative is expected to boost market-ready products, create jobs, and strengthen value chains in agriculture, health, energy, ICT, and manufacturing.
In a statement by the Ministry’s Head of Press and Public Relations, Mrs Pauline Sule, the Minister called on stakeholders across the North West to participate actively, emphasizing that ECoN is a national movement to position Nigeria as a global hub for enterprise and technological advancement.
—
