The First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu has officially launched the North-West Energize Commercialization Now initiative (ECoN) in Kano State, with a strong emphasis on improving access to reliable energy and strengthening small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs).
As the Kano State Governor Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, said the state is committed to support the initiative as it aligns with its policy of technology driven economy.
This was contained in a press release by Mustapha Muhammad, the Chief Press Secretary to Kano State Governor Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf.
The ceremony, held at the historic Coronation Hall brought together top government officials, lawmakers and development partners in a strategic gathering aimed at advancing economic productivity across the region.
In her address, the wife of the President, Senator Remi Tinubu highlighted that the initiative is part of the Federal Government broader commitment to addressing energy challenges facing businesses, particularly SMEs which remain a key driver of economic growth and job creation.
She explained that improved and sustainable energy access is essential for boosting productivity, supporting entrepreneurship and enhancing overall economic development across the country.
According to the First Lady, Nigeria is rich in creativity, with groundbreaking ideas emerging daily from universities, research institutions, innovation hubs, and its youthful population.
Despite some challenges the Nigerian innovators continue to excel globally, particularly in sectors such as fintech and enterprise development.
This, she said, would drive enterprise development, create jobs, and boost the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
She also stressed the importance of inclusivity, calling for greater participation of women and youth in the innovation ecosystem.
Earlier in his welcome address the Executive Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, commended the Federal Government for choosing Kano as the host for the North-West launch, describing the initiative as a timely intervention that aligns with the state development priorities.
He noted that the programme would significantly enhance commercial activities, support local industries and improve the livelihoods of citizens across Kano State.
The governor further assured the full support of his administration to ensure the successful implementation and sustainability of the initiative.
The Governor believes that no economy will grow without innovation, science and technological advancement.
The event concluded with optimism among stakeholders who expressed confidence that the programme would deliver hug benefits in energy access, enterprise development and economic growth across the region.
The Governors of northwestern states endorse the initiative and promise to support it in all directions.
Among those present were the Executive Governor of Kano State, Abba Kabir Yusuf, Governor of Jigawa state, Alhaji Umar Namadi, the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology Dr. Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh, SAN.
Others included the Deputy Senate President, Barau I. Jibrin and Hon. Alhassan Ado Doguwa, representing Tudun Wada/Doguwa Federal Constituency and the incoming Deputy Governor of Kano state Alhaji Murtala Sule Garo among others.
