FG Launches 'Energise Commercialisation Now' Program in Kano to Boost Innovation
The Federal Government is set to unveil the 'Energise Commercialisation Now' (ECN) program in Kano on Thursday, an empowerment initiative aimed at commercializing research outputs and innovations nationwide. The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh, announced this during a press briefing in Kano on Wednesday, ahead of the official launch for the North West Zone.
Bridging the Gap Between Research and Market
Udeh explained that the ECN program is designed to bridge the gap between research, innovation, and market viability. It seeks to transform ideas from Nigerian institutions into commercially viable products and services. He noted that while Nigeria is rich in innovative ideas, many remain unused due to a lack of investment and structured support to move them from laboratories to the marketplace.
"This initiative ensures that research outcomes do not remain on shelves but are turned into solutions that generate revenue, create jobs, and contribute to national development," Udeh stated.
Collaboration and Support
The program, developed in collaboration with the Office of the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, will connect innovators, researchers, and inventors with investors. This is expected to drive economic growth by enabling the development of market-ready products. Udeh revealed that over 1,000 entries of viable innovations have already been collated from across the country, with Kano State leading in submissions.
Following the launch in Kano, technical sessions will be held on April 24 and 25, involving the seven states of the North-West. The initiative will then be extended to other geopolitical zones. A national platform will be created to upload verified research outputs for access by investors and stakeholders.
Long-Term Goals and Participation
Udeh described ECN as a major step towards promoting entrepreneurship, industrial growth, and technological advancement, enhancing Nigeria's competitiveness in science and innovation. He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support and the Kano State Government for providing logistics for the event.
The First Lady is expected to lead dignitaries, including governors and development partners, at the launch. International organizations such as the World Intellectual Property Organisation will also participate. Udeh emphasized that ECN is not a one-off event but a long-term program aimed at building a sustainable ecosystem for innovation-driven development in Nigeria.
He urged stakeholders, including the private sector and development partners, to support the initiative to ensure its success and foster national progress.
