On Wednesday, July 3, 2025, the National Board for Technology Incubation (NBTI) and the Bauchi State Government took a bold step toward economic transformation by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to drive technological innovation, youth empowerment, and entrepreneurship in the state.
The landmark agreement was formalized at the Conference Hall of the Bauchi State Ministry of Power, Science and Technology. Present at the event were top government officials, NBTI’s Zonal leadership, TIC Bauchi staff, and members of the press, making it a high-profile engagement for development stakeholders.
Welcoming guests, Engr. Ibrahim Mato Suleman, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, emphasized the value of the partnership, noting that “this collaboration marks a major leap forward for Bauchi in innovation, technology-based development, and enterprise growth.”
Honourable Commissioner for Power, Science and Technology, Modibbo Usman Abdulkadir Ahmed, celebrated the agreement, stating, “We are delighted to formalize this strategic partnership. His Excellency, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed (Kauran Bauchi), has given us full backing to support the Technology Incubation Programme and transform Bauchi into an innovation hub for the North-East.”
The MoU was signed on behalf of the Bauchi State Government by the Honourable Commissioner and on behalf of NBTI by Hajia Hadiza Mohammed, Zonal Director for the North-East Zone “F”, who also read the address of the Director General, Dr. Kazeem Kolawole Raji.
In his message, Dr. Raji described the agreement as “a transformational pact that will empower entrepreneurs, boost SME development, and establish a foundation for sustainable innovation.” He added, “Governor Bala Mohammed has shown remarkable vision in championing youth and enterprise development.”
The DG also outlined several commitments by NBTI, including expanding and upgrading TIC Bauchi into a leading innovation hub, providing access to business incubation infrastructure, mentorship, and market linkages, and initiating sector-specific incubation programs in agro-processing, renewable energy, healthcare, and ICT.
Additionally, the MoU promises to unlock funding opportunities and foster public-private partnerships essential for long-term innovation infrastructure.
Abdullahi Abdulkadir Yelwa, Centre Manager of TIC Bauchi, gave the vote of thanks. “This MoU is a turning point for innovation in our state,” he said. “The support from both the State Government and NBTI leadership will lead to real economic impact in Bauchi and the wider North-East.”
In other news, FG has repositioned cassava as economic driver.