Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, of Enugu State, Nigeria
Enugu State’s Vision for a Thriving Tech Ecosystem
The Enugu State government is set to train 5,000 youths for tech-related jobs over the next 12 months. This initiative aligns with the state’s commitment to digital transformation and innovation.
Enugu Tech Festival: ‘COAL to CODE’ Set to Revolutionize Tech in the State
To accelerate this transformation, the government is organizing the Enugu Tech Festival (ETF) tagged ‘COAL to CODE,’ scheduled to take place from May 6th to 9th, 2025. The festival aims to position Enugu as one of West Africa’s leading tech hubs and drive tech-driven employment by 50% annually.
Government’s Commitment to Innovation
The Commissioner for Innovation, Science, and Technology, Dr. Lawrence Ezeh, shared details about the festival, emphasizing its role in fostering innovation, supporting tech start-ups, and inspiring young professionals in the tech industry. The ETF is a collaboration between the Enugu State Tech and Start-up Ecosystem and the Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology.
Read also: Enugu Keys Into Sustainable Future With New Green Initiative
Activities at the Enugu Tech Festival
The event will run daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and will feature a variety of activities, including:
- Tech rallies
- Panel sessions
- Networking opportunities
- Exhibitions
Enugu State’s Shift from Coal to a Digital Economy
Historically known for coal mining and civil service dominance, Enugu is now undergoing a digital transformation. The ETF represents this shift, marking Enugu’s transition into a thriving technology and innovation hub.
The state ranks among Nigeria’s top five for tech innovation, with over 100 active start-ups and thousands of tech professionals. The ETF aims to further solidify Enugu’s place in Nigeria’s digital economy.
Launch of the West Africa Stargate (WASGate) Initiative
One of the key highlights of the festival is the launch of the West Africa Stargate (WASGate), a major initiative designed to attract investment and foster collaboration in the state’s tech ecosystem.
Enugu Tech Festival Schedule Breakdown
Day 1 (May 6th): Opening Tech Rally
The ETF will kick off with a large-scale tech rally across Enugu, concluding at the International Conference Centre by 3 p.m. This event will showcase the city’s growing tech presence and engage the public with local innovators.
Day 2 (May 7th): Official Opening & Conference Sessions
The festival will officially begin with keynote addresses from the Governor of Enugu State, the Commissioner for Innovation, and top tech leaders. Panel discussions will focus on:
- Tech innovation
- Start-up funding
- The vision for the WASGate initiative
Day 3 (May 8th): Building a Sustainable Tech Ecosystem
The third day will continue with expert discussions on establishing a sustainable tech ecosystem in Enugu. Key events include:
- A town hall meeting with stakeholders and academic institutions
- A deep dive session with investors on securing funding for start-ups
Day 4 (May 9th): Specialized Tech Panels & Closing Ceremony
The final day will feature specialized discussions on:
- Blockchain technology
- Proptech (property technology)
- Hardware innovations
The festival will conclude with an exhibition of the latest innovations from the region, an award ceremony, and a gala night celebrating outstanding contributions to the tech industry.
Creating Opportunities for Youth and Start-Ups
The ETF seeks to bridge the gap between start-ups and funding opportunities. With over 30 tertiary institutions in the state, the festival serves as a platform to engage young talent, prepare them for tech careers, and foster networking and collaboration.
Economic Impact and Future Projections
Through initiatives like WASGate, which includes a $1.7 million angel investment fund, the ETF aims to accelerate start-up growth and attract international investors. The festival is projected to generate over $25 million in economic impact within two years, creating thousands of jobs and fueling innovation.
Enugu’s Future as a Tech Innovation Hub
The Enugu State government, in partnership with research institutions and private sector players, is dedicated to positioning the state as West Africa’s technology innovation epicenter. With strong government backing, academic partnerships, and industry engagement, the ETF is set to drive digital transformation and economic growth in the region.
