Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, is set to launch Energise Commercialisation Now (ECoN), a Federal Government initiative aimed at driving innovation and industrialisation, in Kano on April 23, 2026.
The programme is designed to mobilise innovation, attract investment, and accelerate industrial production across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. The disclosure was made by the Kano State Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Waiya, during a press briefing on Thursday.
According to Waiya, the three-day event will run from April 23 to April 25, featuring a series of activities aimed at positioning Kano and the North-West region as key drivers of Nigeria’s industrial transformation.
“The landmark event will place Kano State and the entire North-West geopolitical zone at the forefront of Nigeria’s innovation-driven economic transformation,” he said.
He added that the initiative, spearheaded by the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, represents a major step toward unlocking the country’s industrial potential.
Waiya noted that the First Lady will serve as Special Guest of Honour and will officially launch the programme, which is expected to attract wide participation from both public and private sector stakeholders.
Participants at the event will include representatives of federal and state governments, governors and First Ladies from the North-West, as well as research institutions, universities, and polytechnics. Innovators, startups, investors, manufacturers, development finance institutions, and international partners are also expected to attend.
The event will feature a high-level panel discussion focused on strengthening collaboration between federal and state governments on innovation and industrialisation. A mini exhibition showcasing selected innovations is also planned.
Waiya expressed optimism that the initiative would harness the creative potential of Nigerians and stimulate sustainable economic growth.
“With the support of the First Lady, the ministry, and all stakeholders, Energise Commercialisation Now will unlock the innovative potential of our people and create lasting prosperity,” he said.
