Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has launched the Energise Commercialisation Now (ECoN) initiative in Kano State, marking a significant milestone in the Federal Government’s efforts to translate research and innovation into tangible economic growth.
The initiative, unveiled under the theme “From Innovation to Industry. Energising Commercialisation,” is designed to mobilise innovation, attract investment and accelerate industrial production across Nigeria’s six geo-political zones.
It also aims to bridge the long-standing gap between research ideas and their practical application in industry.
Speaking at the event, the First Lady highlighted Nigeria’s vast potential in creativity and innovation but noted that many ideas developed in universities and innovation hubs often fail to reach the marketplace due to systemic challenges.
She said, “Nigeria is rich in talent and innovation, yet many brilliant ideas do not make it to the market. The ECoN initiative is designed to change that by creating an enabling environment that supports talent and transforms ideas into viable enterprises.”
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Mrs Tinubu said that the programme aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s agenda, which prioritises industrialisation, digitalisation and economic diversification.
“The initiative will promote job creation, boost productivity, and contribute to Nigeria’s long-term goal of achieving a one trillion-dollar economy,” she said.
Inclusivity
The First Lady also stressed the importance of inclusivity, calling for increased participation of women and youth in the innovation ecosystem.
“Broad-based involvement will strengthen families, enhance national security, and drive sustainable development,” she added.
In his remarks, Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf described the launch as historic, noting that Kano’s selection reflects confidence in the state’s capacity to lead innovation-driven development in northern Nigeria.
“This initiative will bridge the disconnect between research outputs and market application, enabling the transformation of academic ideas into commercial products and scalable enterprises,” Yusuf said.
The governor said that the programme aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on industrial growth, youth empowerment and economic productivity.
He also highlighted his administration’s investments in digital infrastructure and technical education.
Also speaking, the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Kingsley Tochukwu, said the ECoN initiative is already gaining traction.
“We have received over 1,000 innovation entries and secured initial investment commitments. This underscores the government’s commitment to repositioning science and technology as key drivers of economic development,” Tochukwu said..