Kano, Nigeria – April 24, 2026 – Nigeria has taken a significant stride towards fostering innovation and economic prosperity with the official launch of the "Energise Commercialisation Now" (ECoN) initiative. Spearheaded by Nigeria's First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the program aims to bridge the critical gap between research, innovation, and market viability, transforming groundbreaking ideas into tangible economic value and driving job creation across the nation. The initiative was formally unveiled in Kano, a city historically recognized as a commercial and industrial hub, signaling its strategic importance in catalyzing regional development.

The "Energise Commercialisation Now" initiative is designed as a national framework to mobilize stakeholders, attract investment, and accelerate industrial production by translating research outputs and innovative ideas from Nigerian institutions into commercially viable products and services. The program aligns directly with President Bola Tinubu's agenda, which emphasizes industrialization, digitalization, and economic diversification, with the overarching goal of achieving a one-trillion-dollar economy.

During the launch event, Senator Tinubu highlighted Nigeria's immense potential in creativity and innovation, while acknowledging the persistent challenges that prevent many brilliant ideas from reaching the marketplace. "Nigeria is rich in talent and innovation, yet many brilliant ideas do not make it to the market," she stated. "The ECoN initiative is designed to change that by creating an enabling environment that supports talent and transforms ideas into viable enterprises."

The ECoN initiative is set to foster a new culture where ideas lead to measurable impact, research generates revenue, and innovation drives inclusive prosperity. The program will connect innovators, researchers, and inventors with investors, thereby facilitating the development of products that can stimulate economic growth. The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh, noted that over 1,000 innovation entries have already been received, with initial investment commitments secured, underscoring the government's commitment to repositioning science and technology as key drivers of economic development.

Furthermore, the First Lady emphasized the importance of inclusivity within the innovation ecosystem, calling for increased participation of women and youth. She stated that broad-based involvement is crucial for strengthening families, enhancing national security, and driving sustainable development.

The selection of Kano as the launch site reflects confidence in the state's capacity to lead innovation-driven development in northern Nigeria. The initiative is planned to expand across all six geopolitical zones of the country.