Enugu State has once again placed itself in the limelight as it hosts the second edition of the Enugu Tech Festival. The week-long event is shaping up to be a major platform for innovation, youth engagement, and discussion on how technology can reshape Nigeria’s future. The festival opened with strong statements from political leaders, technology experts, and business figures who all spoke about the vital role of tech in economic growth and job creation.
In his opening remarks at the International Conference Centre in Enugu City, Governor Peter Mbah painted a vivid picture of a future powered by technological innovation. Governor Mbah made it clear that his administration is deeply committed to using technology as a cornerstone for transforming the state’s economy, social systems, and education sector. His message was not just about digitising government services but about inspiring young people to become active creators in an evolving digital landscape.
“Right now, the world is experiencing an economic renaissance driven by technology. Innovation is no longer optional. It is essential for national development,” said the governor, urging youths to explore opportunities in artificial intelligence, robotics, cybersecurity, and other cutting-edge fields. His address set the tone for what many seeing the festival believe is a turning point for technology engagement in southeastern Nigeria.
In his address, Governor Mbah outlined major strides his administration has made in building digital infrastructure, improving security through the use of smart technologies, and reforming education to include practical, tech-driven learning. He urged students and young professionals to embrace the tools of the digital economy and to think beyond traditional employment paths. His vision is for Enugu to be recognised not for its historical association with coal extraction, but for its contributions to technology design and innovation.
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Digital Transformation and Local Growth
A major theme of the festival is how local innovation can drive sustainable economic growth. Speakers at the event highlighted investments in broadband connectivity, digital government services, and technology hubs that create spaces for startups to grow. The state’s Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology, Lawrence Ezeh, described the gathering as “a defining moment” in Enugu’s journey to becoming a tech hub in Nigeria.
Part of the conversation focused on how to build business ecosystems that support young entrepreneurs and technology-based enterprises. Panels included discussions on financing for tech startups, the role of private sector partnerships, and strategies for integrating technology into key sectors like agriculture and healthcare. Attendees also heard about pilot projects in agritech and healthtech that are already showing promise in improving efficiency and service delivery.
The festival also emphasised the importance of collaboration between government, industry, and educational institutions. Several private sector leaders at the event, including technology firm founders and CEOs, shared their journeys and insights on building successful ventures. One notable voice was Leo Stan Ekeh, founder of the Zinox Group, who stressed the importance of self-belief and continuous learning among Nigeria’s youth. “The foundation has been laid here. You now have access to tools and networks that were unimaginable a few years ago,” he said, encouraging young innovators not to let opportunities pass them by.
Skills Development and Opportunity for Youth
One of the core objectives of the Enugu Tech Festival is to bridge the gap between education and employment by equipping young people with skills that are in high demand in the tech sector. Governor Mbah pointed out that formal education in the state has been restructured to include digital tools and technology-oriented training that prepares students for the future economy. Areas such as robotics, machine learning, and applied engineering are now part of routine learning in many schools in Enugu.
The governor’s administration also announced steps to expand innovation hubs across the state, including facilities where young people can learn, build, and test technological solutions. These hubs are designed to act as centres for collaboration and creativity. They serve as a resource for aspiring developers, designers, and tech entrepreneurs who are looking for mentorship, access to tools, and exposure to global tech trends.
Such initiatives are particularly important in a country where youth unemployment remains high and economic opportunities are often limited. By providing platforms like the tech festival and supporting learning environments outside traditional classrooms, Enugu is positioning itself as a state where young people can build careers that are anchored in innovation and problem-solving.
Partnerships and Future Prospects
Another highlight of the festival was the presence of diplomatic representatives and international partners, who commended the state government for its clear focus on innovation and development. Their participation suggests growing interest from foreign investors and technology firms in supporting Nigeria’s tech ecosystem.
Speakers stressed that technology cannot thrive in isolation. Instead, sustained progress will require strong partnerships between governments, private industry, and international allies. Such collaborations will help ensure that Nigeria’s tech leaders of tomorrow have the support they need to scale their ideas, attract investment, and compete on a global stage.
Closing remarks at the opening ceremony encouraged youths to think big and to see beyond current challenges. Participants were reminded that innovation is not only about building products but also about solving real-world problems that affect communities, from improving agricultural practices to enhancing access to quality healthcare.
As the Enugu Tech Festival continues, attention will likely turn to the outcomes of the discussions and the commitments made by stakeholders. Many who attended expressed hope that the event would go beyond inspiration and lead to concrete actions that improve lives, expand economic opportunities, and help youths participate meaningfully in the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
This festival represents not only a platform for showcasing technology but also a broader movement aimed at reshaping how Nigerians view their potential in the digital age. For many young attendees, it was a day to envision what is possible when ambition meets opportunity and when leadership is committed to unlocking human potential through innovation.
Enugu State’s bold embrace of technology and innovation at this festival could serve as an example for other states across Nigeria. It signals a growing recognition that digital skills and tech-based enterprises will be key drivers of economic growth and social development in the years to come.
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