The Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh, SAN has officially declared the Energise Commercialisation Now (ECoN) initiative closed in Kano, marking the successful conclusion of a transformative three-day programme designed to accelerate the commercialisation of research outputs and homegrown innovations.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, the Minister commended participants, partners, and stakeholders for their active engagement, noting that the initiative has reinforced the Federal Government’s commitment to building a knowledge-driven, innovation-led economy.
Dr. Udeh emphasised that the conclusion of ECoN represents the beginning of a new phase of action, where ideas developed through research and innovation must be translated into viable enterprises capable of driving economic growth and job creation across the country.
He reaffirmed the Ministry’s resolve to sustain the momentum generated through ECoN by strengthening policy frameworks, deepening investment in innovation ecosystems, and supporting innovators to scale their solutions. The Minister further described Kano State as a strategic hub for innovation and enterprise development in Northern Nigeria.
Dr. Kingsley has expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR for his visionary leadership and unwavering support in bringing the ECoN initiative to fruition.
In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Mukhtar Yawale Muhammad, mni stressed that the success of ECoN requires a collective national effort. He called on state governments to create enabling environment by fostering stronger collaboration between universities, research institutions, and investors to drive innovation from ideation to full commercialisation.
Delivering the closing remarks on behalf of the Kano State Government, the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Umar Faruk Ibrahim, described ECoN as a strategic platform for advancing sustainable economic development. He noted that the initiative will strengthen collaboration between the Federal Government, States, and key stakeholders, while commending the Ministry and the Northwest Governors Forum for their commitment to the programme’s success.
The ECoN initiative, held over three days in Kano, featured technical sessions, innovation assessments, and strategic engagements aimed at bridging the gap between research and the marketplace.
Mrs. Pauline Sule, anipr
Head, Press & Public Relations
