KANO — A major milestone was recorded in Nigeria’s drive toward innovation-led economic growth with the successful North-West zonal launch of the “Energize Commercialization Now” (ECoN) initiative, held over the past three days in Kano State.

The event was led by Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, and attended by governors from the seven North-West states, alongside the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, top government officials, and development partners.

The launch brought together hundreds of innovators, researchers, investors, and entrepreneurs from across the region. It featured panel discussions, knowledge-sharing sessions, and exhibitions, with young innovators showcasing and pitching projects aimed at addressing critical socio-economic challenges.

Stakeholders described the initiative as a significant step toward strengthening Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem and promoting the commercialization of research and ideas into viable enterprises.

The Kano State Government was commended for hosting the event, which participants said created a platform for collaboration, investment opportunities, and policy engagement.

Organisers and participants alike hailed the programme as a success, noting that it signals the beginning of sustained efforts to drive innovation, create jobs, and accelerate economic development in the North-West and beyond.

They, however, emphasised that the focus must now shift to implementation, ensuring that ideas generated from the initiative translate into tangible outcomes.

The “Energize Commercialization Now” initiative is part of broader efforts to position Nigeria as a hub for innovation-driven growth, leveraging the creativity and potential of its youthful population.