First Lady unveils ECoN initiative in Kano, targets conversion of research to jobs, industry growth

The Federal Government has formally launched the Energise Commercialisation Now (ECoN) initiative in Kano, positioning it as a national framework to bridge the long-standing gap between research outputs and real-sector economic growth.

Speaking while, flagging off the programme, the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, described the initiative as a strategic move to transform Nigeria’s innovation landscape by turning ideas from universities and research institutes into market-ready products and sustainable enterprises.

The high-level event, attended by governors, federal lawmakers, ministers, traditional rulers and development partners is said to mark what officials called a turning point in Nigeria’s push toward an innovation-driven economy.
Host governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, said Kano was selected in recognition of its historic role as the commercial hub of Northern Nigeria and its growing investment in science, technology and innovation.

He noted that ECoN would “connect innovators to investors and manufacturers,” unlock the economic value of research, and stimulate small and medium-scale enterprises across the North-West.

“This is not just a programme launch, but the ignition of a movement that will redefine how Nigeria translates ideas into impact, research into revenue, and innovation into inclusive prosperity,” he said.

The governor noted that the initiative aligns with the economic agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which prioritises industrialisation, youth empowerment and a shift from consumption to production.

Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Kingsley Udeh, explained that ECoN was designed after years of recognising that many Nigerian innovations remained “trapped in laboratories” due to lack of funding, market access and commercialisation pathways.

He said the programme would deploy a structured system including investor pitch sessions, technical evaluations and “deal rooms” where innovators can negotiate directly with financiers and industry players.

According to him, more than 1,000 innovation entries have already been received within weeks of the programme’s rollout, with early-stage investment commitments secured for high-potential projects.

He said that the initiative will also feature a national digital commercialisation platform to connect researchers with global investors and ensure transparency in deal-making, while government provides certification to boost investor confidence.

Udeh noted that the ECoN is being implemented in phases across geopolitical zones to encourage regional collaboration, competition and shared ownership of innovation outcomes.
The First Lady, who is championing the initiative, was commended for her support to Kano and the wider northern region, including interventions in education, women empowerment and social welfare.

Stakeholders at the event stressed that sustained investment in research and its practical application remains critical to replicating the industrial successes seen in countries like Germany and during the Industrial Revolution.

They expressed optimism that ECoN would unlock billions in investments, generate jobs for Nigeria’s growing youth population and accelerate the country’s ambition of building a trillion-dollar economy.

“This is the moment Nigeria chose to commercialise its brilliance,” one speaker said. “The journey from innovation to prosperity has begun.”