Oluremi Tinubu Launches ECoN Initiative in Kano to Drive Innovation, Jobs and Industrial Growth

Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, on Thursday launched the Energise Commercialisation Now (ECoN) initiative in Kano, 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 aims to bridge the long-standing gap between ideas generated in research institutions and their practical application in industry.

Speaking at the event, Mrs Tinubu 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.

“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,” she said.

She added that the programme aligns with the agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, 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,” the First Lady stated.
Mrs Tinubu 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 said.

In his remarks, Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir 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,” he said.

The governor added 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, 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,” he noted.