Sokoto State has joined the national Energise Commercialisation Now (ECoN) initiative, signalling a stronger push to convert local ideas and research outputs into viable businesses and jobs. The state participated in the programme’s national flag-off held in Kano, aligning with a broader federal effort to deepen Nigeria’s innovation-to-market pipeline.
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ECoN, driven by the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology under the Federal Government of Nigeria, is designed to bridge the long-standing gap between research institutions and industry by accelerating the commercialisation of scientific and technological innovations. The initiative is championed by the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, with the Kano State Government hosting the launch event led by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.
Sokoto’s delegation was led by the Commissioner for Innovation and Digital Economy, Bashar Umar Kwabo, alongside the Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Haruna Abbas Bashir. They were joined by senior officials, academics, students, and private sector stakeholders, reflecting a multi-sector approach to innovation development.
Speaking at the event, Kwabo described the state’s participation as a strategic step towards economic diversification and inclusive growth. “Our engagement with the ECoN initiative reflects the commitment of Governor Ahmad Aliyu Sokoto’s administration to building an innovation-driven economy, empowering young people, and supporting enterprise development,” he said. He added that Sokoto aims to leverage the platform to scale indigenous solutions and attract partnerships that can translate ideas into sustainable ventures.
At the exhibition segment, Sokoto showcased a range of locally developed innovations spanning assistive technology, security systems, renewable energy, and manufacturing. Among them was a Smart Assistive Glass for the Blind, developed by Aliyu Hassan S/Fulani, designed to improve navigation and independence for visually impaired users. Another highlight was a Smart Security System by Tanimu Abdullahi, integrating radar, laser, and camera technologies for real-time surveillance and threat detection.
Also presented was a transparent transformer built by Engr. Anas Boyi Aliyu, capable of sending automatic alerts when faults are detected. Additional innovations included smart recycling and waste sorting systems, a solar-powered motorcycle, a 3D printer, a solar milk processor, and a solar cooking pot—each reflecting a focus on practical, locally adaptable solutions.
Academic participation featured experts from Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, and SAISA University, reinforcing the role of research institutions in the innovation ecosystem. The projects were presented during technical sessions that included pitching, evaluation, and direct engagement with potential investors and industry partners at the Coronation Hall, Government House, Kano.
The ECoN platform is positioned as a national catalyst for enterprise creation, particularly targeting youth and women, while strengthening linkages between innovators, financiers, and markets. For Sokoto, participation underscores a growing intent to collaborate with federal institutions, private sector players, and development partners to unlock the commercial value of research outputs.
With increasing emphasis on innovation-led growth across Nigeria, Sokoto’s entry into ECoN signals a deliberate move to position the state within the country’s evolving startup and industrial landscape, where ideas are expected to transition more rapidly into scalable businesses and employment opportunities.
