The Enugu government says executives of leading global technology and innovation companies, Google, Amazon, Microsoft and others, will participate in the inaugural edition of the Enugu Tech Festival.

The four-day festival, which will be held from May 6 to May 9, 2025, at the International Conference Centre in Enugu, is themed ‘COAL to CODE’.

Lawrence Ezeh, the commissioner for innovation, science and technology, said this while briefing journalists in Enugu on Tuesday.

He said the event aimed to revolutionise the state’s technology ecosystem and boost its position as one of the leading tech hubs in West Africa.

Mr Ezeh said the festival was a collaboration between Enugu State Tech and Startup Ecosystem and the Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology.

He said it would provide an avenue to foster innovation, support tech startups, and inspire young professionals within the tech industry. He said the festival would feature rallies, panel sessions, networking opportunities, and exhibitions.

Mr Ezeh said 10,000 participants were expected at the festival, including founders of established tech companies, startup enthusiasts, tech investors, students, graduates and tech policymakers.

The commissioner said the event would allow the public to engage with local innovators and showcase the city’s growing tech presence.

“There will be thought-provoking speaking engagements and insightful addresses on the future of technology and innovation by the governor of Enugu State, Peter Ndubuisi Mbah and other key leaders from the tech ecosystem.

“Panel discussions will highlight the importance of tech innovation, startup funding and the vision for the West Africa Stargate initiative, as well as building a sustainable tech ecosystem in Enugu.

“There will be a town hall meeting where stakeholders and heads of tertiary institutions will discuss strategies for tech education and growth in the state, country and West African region,” he said.

(NAN)