The Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology (FMIST), has unveiled a flagship initiative tagged Energise Commercialisation Now (ECoN), aimed at driving innovation and accelerating industrial growth across the country.
The Kano State Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Waiya, disclosed this while briefing journalists on the state’s preparations to host the programme’s national launch and North-West zonal rollout.
He said Kano State has been selected to host the historic event, which will be officially launched by the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who will serve as the Special Guest of Honour.
According to the commissioner, the ECoN initiative is designed to mobilise innovation, attract investment, and fast-track the commercialisation of research outputs across Nigeria’s six geo-political zones.
Waiya explained that the three-day event is scheduled to hold from April 23 to April 25, 2026, in Kano, and will feature a range of high-level engagements and activities.
He outlined that the first day will focus on political leadership and national mobilisation, bringing together key government stakeholders to drive policy alignment and commitment.
The Commissioner stressed that,the second day will centre on innovation discovery, exhibition, and evaluation, where researchers, inventors, and startups will showcase their ideas and products.
“The final day will be dedicated to investment and commercialisation, including deal rooms designed to connect innovators with investors, manufacturers, and industry players”
He explained that, the event is expected to attract a wide range of participants, including federal and state government officials, governors and First Ladies from the North-West, research institutions, universities, polytechnics, private sector investors, development finance institutions, and international partners.
Waiya emphasised the strategic importance of the initiative, noting that the North-West, with Kano as its commercial hub, is rich in agricultural resources, textile potential, solid minerals, and entrepreneurial talent.
The Commissioner, however, lamented that many innovations from academic and research institutions in the region remain largely uncommercialised.
According to him, ECoN will provide a structured platform to identify viable innovations, link innovators with investors, offer intellectual property support, ensure standards certification, and facilitate access to funding.
He added that the programme would also prepare local innovators for participation in international trade platforms, including the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) 2027.
Waiya noted that the initiative aligns with Kano State Government’s agenda on job creation, wealth generation, promotion of local content, and export-driven industrialisation.